The police have announced several road closures and traffic diversions in Nairobi as the country prepares to mark the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations at the Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, December 12, 2025.
Nairobi Regional Commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo, speaking on Thursday, December 11, outlined comprehensive traffic management plans and security measures for the national event.
"All the vehicles from Langata Road will be diverted on Madaraka Road roundabout to Lusaka Road roundabout, while the Aerodrome Wakihuri Road will be closed between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m.," Kitiyo announced.
Motorists using the Nairobi Expressway will also face restrictions during the celebrations.
Vehicles traveling from Westlands will be required to exit at Bunyala starting from 7 a.m., while those coming from Mlolongo must exit at Capital Center. No vehicles will be permitted on the expressway section opposite Nyayo Stadium.
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"Traffic on all the other roads will operate normally. All motorists are requested to follow the directives of the traffic officers who will be at hand to guide," the Regional Commissioner added.
Kitiyo urged members of the public attending the celebrations to take necessary security precautions, advising against displaying valuables in crowded areas.
"They should not use their expensive phones or expose expensive watches, jewellery and other valuables in crowded areas," he cautioned.
Attendees are permitted to bring water, refreshments, and snacks to the venue; however, alcoholic beverages are not allowed. The gates will open at 5 a.m., with everyone expected to be seated by 7 a.m. before the official proceedings begin.
National Government Administration officers, police officers, National Youth Service personnel, and other agencies will be deployed to assist attendees and direct them to appropriate seating areas at the pavilion, public terraces, and other designated zones.
Parking arrangements have been made within the stadium grounds for VIPs, while other vehicles will be accommodated around the stadium and along the closed Langata-Mombasa Road loop. Drivers are advised to follow instructions from traffic officers stationed at various points.
The celebrations will host international dignitaries, including heads of state, government officials, and diplomats who have been invited to witness the occasion.
In keeping with the patriotic spirit of the day, Kitiyo encouraged Kenyans to dress in the national colors of black, red, green, and white.
"To affirm our patriotism, we request that Kenyans let our dress code be inspired by our national colours. Of course, our national colours are the colours of our flag. It should be inspired by that," he stated.
"As I conclude, ladies and gentlemen, may I reiterate that this year's Jamhuri Day will be celebrated at Nyayo National Stadium on 12 December 2025 and all persons, including the media, are invited to attend," Kitiyo concluded.
The Interior Ministry had earlier confirmed Nyayo Stadium as the venue after initial plans to hold the event at the still-under-construction Talanta Sports City were revised.
This year's Jamhuri Day follows the government's new approach of themed national holidays, with the 2025 celebrations centered on Tourism, Wildlife, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano previously indicated that President William Ruto will unveil significant tourism policies during his national address, marking a strategic effort to strengthen Kenya's position as a leading global tourism destination.
“These announcements will anchor the next phase of transforming Kenya’s tourism sector,” Miano said.
