Construction of the second and third phase of the Sh28 billion Dongo Kundu bypass has started.
The Mwache-Mteza oversea twin-bridge will connect Mombasa and Kwale counties.
Kwale governor Salim Mvurya, on Thursday, noted the project will boost economy of his county and the entire Coast region at large, especially by growing tourism.
“We are happy the contractor for Dongo Kundu bridge is finally on site. We expect the project to bolster tourism in South Coast,” Mvurya said.
The region will also benefit from the ongoing construction of the Sh2 billion Samburu-Kinango road that will connect Kwale Town to other urban centres in the region.
Mvurya said proposed upgrading of Ukunda airstrip will enhance tourism.
With Diani having been voted five times as having the best beach in Africa, Mvurya noted completion of the Dongo Kundu project will be a game changer.
"We will soon be boarding buses to Nairobi from Kwale with having to connect through Mombasa, thanks to ongoing infrastructure development,” Mvurya said.
Tourists going to Diani Beach have to go through Mombasa using the Likoni ferry crossing. However, stakeholders say delay the ferry crossing is affecting business.
Tourists from Diana to Moi International Airport in Mombasa County have also been inconvenienced at Likoni ferry crossing due to frequent breakdown of vessels.