The Kenyan government on Thursday, 25 September, officially opened the Dongo Kundu Bypass in Mombasa, dramatically transforming travel between the island city and the South Coast.
The bypass, which connects Miritini and Moi International Airport directly to Diani and other tourist destinations, is expected to end decades of delays caused by congestion at the Likoni Ferry crossing and boost both tourism and local trade.
For years, travellers heading to the South Coast relied on the Likoni Ferry as the only link, often enduring long queues and unpredictable wait times. The new bypass now offers a seamless alternative, cutting travel time from nearly two hours to just about 30 minutes.
This development is already being hailed as a game-changer for the tourism industry, with stakeholders expecting a surge in visitor numbers.
Kenya Tourism Board officials said Diani Beach, which has repeatedly been ranked among Africa’s top beach destinations, will now be more accessible to both local and international visitors.
“This bypass is not just a road; it is an economic lifeline. It will attract more tourists, create jobs, and increase revenues for businesses along the coast,” said a tourism stakeholder in Mombasa.
The improved connectivity is also expected to benefit local residents by making commuting faster and cheaper while opening up new markets for farmers and traders in Kwale and Mombasa counties.
Transport experts predict a reduction in traffic congestion in Mombasa’s central business district, which has been a major challenge for decades.
The Dongo Kundu Bypass is part of the government’s broader infrastructure development agenda aimed at boosting trade, tourism, and regional integration along the Coast.
Authorities have urged residents and business owners to capitalise on the opportunities created by the new road.
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