The national government, through Kenya National Highways Authority (KenHa), has commenced construction of a road connecting the Export Processing Zone Authority (EPZ), and Makadara Shopping Centre in Athi River town.

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Mavoko MP, Patrick Makau, who commissioned the construction on Monday said the road, whose cost is estimated at Sh17 Million was intended to open the EPZ's main gate for easy access by area residents, who are employees of the companies within the zone.

Makau said EPZ is located in Mavoko Constituency, Machakos County but its main entrance apparently situated in Kajiado County, hence the importance of the road's construction.

The legislator said that livelihoods of the residents living within Makadara Shopping Centre and its environs would improve, if tarmacking of the road is complete, arguing that access to the zone through the road will spur region's development.

He however called on individuals who had encroached road reserve by constructing temporary structures for their businesses to move them within one month, to avoid being inconvenienced by forceful demolitions.

KenHA's engineer in charge, Enosmus Kemoi, who also spoke at the site said the government would tarmac the road in phases, with phase one that will end in July this year covering 0.4 Kilometers.

Kemoi disclosed that they had a good construction plan to avoid conflicts between motorists and pedestrians, alongside strong foundation to ensure the road lasts longer.