- The Clean Core BRT Line 3 is part of the Nairobi Integrated Urban Development Master Plan (NIUPLAN), which aims to combat vehicular congestion and enhance citywide mobility.
- Complementing this, the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has also announced plans for the Ksh 7.3 billion BRT Line 5 along Outer Ring Road, funded by the Korean Exim Bank and South Korea’s Economic Development Cooperation Fund.
Nairobi has secured Ksh 43.4 billion in funding from international partners to develop the Clean Core Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Line 3, a landmark initiative aimed at reducing traffic congestion and promoting sustainable urban mobility. The financing, approved by the European Investment Bank (EIB), French Development Agency (AFD), and the European Union (EU), marks a significant step in modernizing Nairobi’s transport infrastructure.
Governor Johnson Sakaja lauded the project as transformative during a meeting with the funding partners. “This funding represents a boost to Nairobi’s transportation infrastructure. Our partners have approved €320 million for the Clean Core BRT Line 3. This is a historic moment for our city,” he said.
The project’s first phase will span a 12-kilometre route from Dandora to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) via Juja Road. Subsequent phases will extend the network, connecting Tala to Dandora and KNH to Ngong. The BRT system will feature electric buses, aligning with Nairobi’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing urban living.
“This isn’t just about buses; it’s about transforming how our people live, work, and move. Cleaner, safer, and more efficient transportation will uplift the livelihoods of millions of Nairobians,” Sakaja added.
Construction is set to begin in early 2025, following the completion of preliminary designs and feasibility studies. The BRT system will incorporate pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, non-motorized transport options, and smart traffic management technologies.
The Clean Core BRT Line 3 is part of the Nairobi Integrated Urban Development Master Plan (NIUPLAN), which aims to combat vehicular congestion and enhance citywide mobility. Complementing this, the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has also announced plans for the Ksh 7.3 billion BRT Line 5 along Outer Ring Road, funded by the Korean Exim Bank and South Korea’s Economic Development Cooperation Fund.
Nairobi’s BRT initiative includes five lines, each designed to streamline transportation and decongest the city. Line 1 (Ndovu) and Line 2 (Simba) are in advanced stages, while Line 3 (Chui) will connect Tala, Njiru, Dandora, and Ngong. Line 4 (Kifaru) will serve the East and West of the city, and Line 5 will focus on Outer Ring Road.
Key features of these systems include dedicated bus lanes, EV charging stations, park-and-ride facilities, and safety systems such as CCTV. The BRT’s electric buses will also significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making Nairobi’s transport system more sustainable.
Governor Sakaja called for stakeholder support to ensure the project’s success. “This is a partnership for Nairobi’s future. We are determined to deliver a world-class transport system for our people,” he said.
With commute times expected to drop drastically, the Clean Core BRT Line 3 promises to benefit residents and businesses while positioning Nairobi as a model for urban sustainability in Africa.
