Expanded Kenyatta road offers reprieve to cyclists and joggers

Kenyatta road, which connects from Thika superhighway to Gatundu town, in Kiambu county, is fast attracting cyclists and joggers.

The expansion of the road has seen the creation of a suitable pavement stretch running parallel to the road for use by pedestrians and cyclists.

The serene surroundings and fresh breeze coming from the ‘undefiled’ bushes and coffee farms along the stretch have made using the track a pleasant undertaking for joggers, pedestrians and cyclists.

Jackson Kimani -- a resident of Juja -- regularly jogs along the stretch. 

“This is very safe. Initially I used to compete for space with cyclists, motorbike riders and vehicles as I exercised on the edges of the Thika Superhighway, but not anymore,” said Kimani.

“I get to interact with ‘undisturbed’ nature a feeling I find very gratifying. I often jog for more than 15 kilometres. On Thika road I endured noise and curious looks from commuters,” he said.

Residents who live in estates along the road can now allow their children to cycle on the pavements because they are safer.

Damaris Makena, also a resident of Juja, told Wananchi Reporting that she now feels okay allowing her school-going children to cycle along the stretch.

“Drainage channels separating the main road and pavements make it even safer. Back then, even walking along the road was risky,” Makena said.

The road passes through Juja and Gatundu South constituencies, including former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s rural home at Ichaweri village.