5 Projects that collapsed, embarrassing President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2017

2017 saw President Uhuru Kenyatta launch several projects with some collapsing shortly afterwards, drawing criticism and sparking debate.

Here are some projects that did not go down as planned:

Collapsed SGR tunnel

On 16 Dec 2017, President Uhuru Kenyatta launched the Nairobi-Naivasha SGR tunnel, marking the second phase of the project.

Barely three days later, a culvert on a section of the tunnel collapsed, killing two workers and injuring four others. The collapse was blamed on wind, leaving many questioning how weak the tunnel was to be blown away by wind.

Collapsed Sigiri Bridge

The Sigiri bridge which was constructed at a cost of Ksh1.2 Billion was launched by President Uhuru Kenyatta in pomp and colour in June 2017. Barely two weeks later, the bridge collapsed with the opposition claiming that it was hurriedly done to boost the president’s re-election bid.

Sinking Bamburi Road

On May 24 2017, a section of leaders from the Coast led by Martin Wekesa put President Uhuru Kenyatta on the spot for launching bogus projects.

This was after Bamburi road that had been launched by the president barely six months earlier was reported to be sinking with some sections washed away.

Mtongwe Ferry Services

In March 2017, a standoff was witnessed after Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho was barred from attending the launch of Mtongwe Ferry Services graced by the president.

Less than two months later, a section of the pontoon was washed away into the sea, leaving passengers stranded and leaving many questioning unanswered.

Cancelled title deeds

Land remains a contentious issue that President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto were keen on addressing during their first term in office.

The Jubilee administration allegedldy issued 3 million title deeds but this was not short of controversy.

On 26 Jan 2017, National Land Commission Chair Mohammed Swazuri nullified thousands of the title deeds issued in Kwale, disclosing that the titles were erroneously given to non-locals.