Colas East Africa, a leading manufacturer of bitumen products for road construction, has unveiled a new, environmentally friendly approach to road repair and construction. Departing from the traditional hot mix solutions, the company has introduced innovative water-based products that enhance safety while offering significant environmental benefits.
In a demonstration held yesterday in Nakuru County, Engineer Michael Kamau and the Colas East Africa team showcased their cold mix asphalt technology. The project, conducted along the road next to Holy Trinity Catholic Church, near the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC), involved patching potholes using pre-prepared cold mix asphalt. This method eliminates the need for heating bitumen, making it safer for workers and reducing emissions.
Engineer Charles Mutua, the Operations Manager of Colas East Africa, highlighted previous successful projects in Nairobi’s Eastleigh area, where they worked in collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA). He also pointed to notable achievements in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, and various locations in Tanzania, where the cold mix technology has been applied.
“We’ve seen a lot of success with this method in urban areas, and we are excited to bring it to Nakuru. It’s faster, safer, and environmentally friendly, which is essential as we look for sustainable solutions in road construction,” Mutua said.
The event was attended by key officials, including Edgar Sirima, Acting Director for Roads and Public Transport, as well as sub-county engineers from Nakuru County. The demonstration highlighted the efficiency and durability of the cold mix asphalt, which can be applied without heavy machinery and under various weather conditions.
This new technology marks a shift towards more sustainable practices in the road construction industry in Kenya, promising long-term cost savings and reduced environmental impact.
By Veronica Bosibori.
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