What was the research about?
My research examined how road infrastructure shapes development and environmental outcomes in rural Kenya. Rather than viewing roads solely as engineering projects, I investigated how political incentives influence where roads are built, how improved accessibility affects local economies, and what environmental consequences can emerge.
Why does this research matter?
The central message is simple: building roads alone is not enough. Their ability to deliver equitable and sustainable development depends on the institutions and policies that guide where they are built and how their positive impacts are enhanced while environmental trade-offs are managed.
Although grounded in Kenya, the findings are relevant to many low- and middle-income countries investing in transport infrastructure. I hope this work contributes to more evidence-based infrastructure planning that balances economic opportunity, regional equity, and environmental sustainability.
