Nairobi Brought to a Standstill as Police Block Major Routes to CBD

Nairobi residents woke up to major disruptions on Thursday morning after police sealed off several key roads leading into the Central Business District (CBD), despite earlier government assurances that the day would proceed as normal.

Thousands of commuters were left stranded across the capital as security officers enforced restrictions at major entry points into the city centre. The operation came amid heightened security around the planned anniversary of the Gen Z-led protests that began a year ago.

Access to CBD Restricted

The heavy police presence has disrupted traffic flow into the heart of Nairobi, with motorists and pedestrians facing difficulties accessing the CBD.

Although the Interior Ministry had indicated that normal operations would continue, the situation on the ground was different, with several routes experiencing roadblocks and movement restrictions.

Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) were among those most affected, with some unable to proceed beyond police checkpoints.

“Forget the Interior Ministry’s claim that there will be normalcy. It is ‘no access’,” one commuter posted online.

Disruptions Along Waiyaki Way

On the western side of Nairobi, Waiyaki Way experienced significant disruption, with multiple police checkpoints reported along the route.

A major roadblock was set up around the Uthiru-87 Junction, causing heavy traffic buildup and delays.

Long-distance buses arriving from western Kenya were reportedly stopped, leaving many travellers unable to complete their journeys into the city.

Heavy Deployment on Thika Superhighway

Similar scenes were witnessed along the Thika Superhighway, where anti-riot police officers mounted checkpoints at several points, including Thika, Ruiru, Juja, Kahawa and Githurai.

Traffic congestion intensified near the Kasarani Stadium roundabout, where vehicles heading toward the CBD were reportedly stopped and turned back.

Some pedestrians also reported being affected as movement through certain areas became restricted.

Mombasa Road and Other Routes Affected

On Mombasa Road, movement into Nairobi was disrupted at Mlolongo, where a police barrier slowed traffic entering the city.

Other major roads, including Jogoo Road, Ngong Road and Lang’ata Road, also experienced increased police presence, affecting especially commuters relying on public transport.

Commuters Forced to Walk

With many PSVs unable to move past police checkpoints, thousands of workers were forced to abandon vehicles and walk long distances to reach their destinations.

Some commuters expressed frustration over the restrictions, saying the disruptions had affected their ability to access workplaces.

“Freedom of movement curtailed… Now workers won’t access their workplaces,” another commuter wrote on X.

The situation continued to develop as authorities maintained security operations across the city.