All that, for the despicable reason that this legendary road (Queen Elizabeth II used it on her historic visit to Kenya) is in its poorest state since construction decades ago.

Late last year, it was evident the government was ready to help end our problems. It duly contracted a company to rehabilitate the road, a move we couldn't welcome more.

Construction has since begun. However, the progress is rather slow. Few workers are being used on very long stretches (more than 100 kms). Concrete is transported using wheelbarrows while tar-heating is being done with firewood. The ministry of public works should insist on better workmanship.

Public Service Vehicle operators have taken advantage of the poor state of the road to charge exorbitant fares. This is, of course, done at the expense of commuters and other travellers. The farmers in the agriculturally productive Kinangop area cannot transport their produce for sale as the poor road makes it difficult for them to reach markets.

The local people are so frustrated that they are considering extreme actions, such as, taking to the streets to demonstrate against this appalling state of affairs. We shall not keep quiet as the problems continue to bedevil us.

We are now asking the minister in charge of public works, Mr William Morogo, to look into this matter immediately. It would be in his interest and that of the government that the rural economy is developed. 

BRIAN NGUGI NJOROGE, 
Naivasha.