Nairobi motorists should brace for significant traffic changes this Sunday, August 17, as authorities implement road restrictions to manage crowds during the African Nations Championship (CHAN) matches.
Joseph Chirchir, Nairobi County's Traffic Commander, has issued a comprehensive advisory warning drivers to adjust their travel plans ahead of the Kenya versus Zambia and the DRC versus Morocco matches at Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums, respectively.
Three major routes will experience closures or lane restrictions during the tournament period.
Aerodrome Road faces a complete shutdown between Madaraka Roundabout and Bunyala Roundabout, forcing all traffic onto alternative routes.
Single-lane closures will affect both Lang'ata Road (Madaraka to Lusaka roundabouts) and Mombasa Road (Lusaka to Bunyala roundabouts), creating potential congestion for commuters.
Read More
Traffic authorities have mapped out several bypass options to help drivers navigate the restrictions.
Drivers who typically use Mombasa Road to reach the city center can redirect via Likoni-Enterprise Road near General Motors or take the Southern Bypass through Ole Sereni.
Commuters from the Lang'ata Road area have been encouraged to switch to Raila Odinga Road or utilize Muhoho Road when approaching Mbagathi Roundabout.
The busy Thika corridor will see extensive traffic management with multiple redirection points established.
Motorists heading from downtown Nairobi toward Thika, Ruiru, and Juja areas must use Kiambu Road via Exit 4, where authorities will establish a roadblock at Muthaiga.
Before connecting to Nairobi River Road, travelers to Mwiki from Thika Highway should pass through Ruaraka, Baba Ndogo, and Luckysummer.
Traffic flowing in the opposite direction from Thika-Juja-Ruiru toward the capital can bypass congestion using either the Northern Bypass or Kiambu Road.
Githurai residents commuting to the CBD have been advised to use the Githurai 44-Kiambu Road connection instead of their usual routes.
Stadium-bound vehicles without special access permits must utilize designated service lanes at Exits 7 and 8 for Kasarani access.
Officials have issued their strongest warning regarding Thika Road, urging complete avoidance unless travel is essential.
The upcoming Kenya versus Zambia clash has prompted extensive preparations from authorities following recent security concerns.
After the Confederation of African Football imposed a substantial USD 50,000 penalty for safety violations during the Morocco match, officials are implementing stricter crowd management measures.
The Football Kenya Federation has established six fan viewing areas across the capital - including Uhuru Park, Dandora Stadium, and Kibera DC Grounds - to accommodate supporters who cannot secure stadium tickets while maintaining CAF compliance standards.
Fans are advised to arrive at the venues at least five hours before kickoff with digital tickets ready on their phones.
