The government has announced that at least four categories of vehicles will be exempted from paying toll fees on the upcoming Rironi–Mau Summit Highway, a major infrastructure project under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework.
In a statement released on Sunday, October 26, 2025, the Directorate of Public-Private Partnerships confirmed that ambulances, military and police vehicles, as well as local traffic serving residents living along the corridor, will either enjoy reduced toll rates or be fully exempt from payment.
“Tolling applies to new or substantially upgraded highways that handle high volumes of passenger and freight traffic, and serve as key trade and connectivity corridors,” the notice read in part.
The directorate further explained that each toll project undergoes a comprehensive approval process involving feasibility studies, environmental and social assessments, public participation, competitive procurement, and final clearance by the PPP Committee.
It also clarified that toll rates will not be fixed but will be regularly reviewed and adjusted in line with prevailing economic conditions to ensure fairness and sustainability.
Tolling Framework and Benefits
According to the Directorate, proceeds from the tolls will finance 24-hour patrols, road lighting, and emergency rescue and paramedic services, aimed at enhancing safety and user experience along the highway.
The update follows recent public debate after the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) proposed a Ksh 8 per kilometre toll rate for motorists using the expressway — a proposal that has drawn mixed reactions from the public.
KeNHA disclosed that the highway will have eight toll stations under an open tolling system, where drivers will only pay for the distance they travel. The proposal was put forward by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) in partnership with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), who were selected as the preferred bidders for the project.
“Based on comparative assessment, the Evaluation Committee concluded that CRBC and NSSF meet the PPP Act requirements with a proposed toll rate of Ksh 8 per kilometre, subject to a 1% annual escalation,” the statement noted.
Project Overview
The 175-kilometre Rironi–Mau Summit Highway is set to feature 15 interchanges, eight footbridges, 25 kilometres of service lanes, eight wildlife crossings, 41 U-turns, 41 underpasses, and 118 bus bays.
Officials say the tolling system will play a critical role in traffic management, road maintenance, and reducing vehicle operating costs, while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the project.
