The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has strongly opposed the government’s proposed highway toll fees on major highways across Kenya. The move, aimed at funding road maintenance and infrastructure projects, has sparked significant backlash from drivers who warn it will substantially increase daily travel expenses and impact mobility for commuters and transport operators.
Why Kenyan Motorists Oppose Highway Toll Fees
Motorists and transport operators argue that the introduction of tolls will:
Why Kenyan Motorists Oppose Highway Toll Fees
Motorists and transport operators argue that the introduction of tolls will:
- Increase daily travel costs, making commuting unaffordable for many Kenyans
- Limit mobility, especially for low-income earners and small-scale traders relying on affordable road transport
- Lead to higher public transport fares, as operators pass on the additional costs to passengers
The Motorists Association stresses that these toll fees could disproportionately burden those already struggling with rising living expenses.
Government’s Plan for Highway Tolls in Kenya
The Kenyan government insists that toll charges are essential to:
- Generate sustainable revenue for road maintenance and highway expansion
- Improve road safety and reduce congestion on busy routes
- Attract private sector investment through public-private partnerships (PPPs)
Despite this, detailed plans on toll rates, user exemptions, and alternative funding options remain unclear to the public.
The Motorists Association of Kenya is calling for:
The Motorists Association of Kenya is calling for:
- Comprehensive public consultations before implementing toll fees
- Exploration of alternative funding mechanisms that do not overburden commuters
- Transparent and accountable use of existing road maintenance funds
Their advocacy highlights the need to balance infrastructure development with affordability and accessibility for all road users.
Introducing tolls on Kenya’s major highways could have wide-reaching effects:
Introducing tolls on Kenya’s major highways could have wide-reaching effects:
- Increased transportation costs for daily commuters
- Higher operational costs for freight and commercial vehicles
- Potential slowdown in economic activities reliant on affordable logistics
As Kenya continues to develop its road infrastructure, the debate over highway toll fees reveals the challenge of financing maintenance while ensuring equitable access. The Motorists Association of Kenya’s opposition highlights the need for transparent, consultative approaches that protect commuters from excessive costs.
