Nairobi motorists are warned to prepare for severe traffic disruptions on Thursday as the African Nations Championship (CHAN) returns, bringing with it thousands of football fans and beefed-up security around key venues.
Two exciting matches are on the cards at Kasarani Stadium, with the highlight featuring Harambee Stars taking on Angola. Events kick off earlier in the afternoon when DR Congo face Zambia at 4 p.m. at the same venue.
In a traffic advisory issued in preparation for the matches, Nairobi Traffic Commandant Joseph Chirchir warned motorists of congested traffic on main roads – especially Thika Road, which is expected to bear the largest brunt of the traffic. He urged motorists to avoid the use of the highway unless they are attending to watch the games.
To allow free flow for players, officials, and spectators, and boost security, police will have full or partial road closures close to the match venues.
As seen last Sunday, Aerodrome Road will be fully closed between Madaraka Roundabout and Bunyala Roundabout.
Lang’ata Road will have one lane closed from Madaraka Roundabout to Lusaka Roundabout, while Mombasa Road will see partial closure between Lusaka and Bunyala Roundabouts.
To help ease the congestion, traffic authorities have outlined several alternative routes:
- From Mombasa Road to the CBD: Use Likoni–Enterprise Road at General Motors or the Southern Bypass via Ole Sereni.
- From Lang’ata Road to the CBD: Divert at Mbagathi Roundabout to Raila Odinga way or Muhoho Road.
- From the CBD to Thika, Juja, Ruiru, and Thika Road: Use Limuru Road or Kiambu Road.
Due to Nyayo Stadium also hosting matches, these routes will remain restricted throughout the day.
- For fans heading to Kasarani, matatus should use Ruaraka–Baba Dogo Road, go through Ngomongo Road, and enter through Ngomongo Roundabout.
- Motorists heading towards Thika Road are requested to use the Eastern Bypass, Kiambu Road, or Limuru Road to avoid congestions.
Police are urging drivers to plan ahead, follow the directions of traffic marshals, and be patient on match day.
