The Kenya National Highways Authority (KenHa) has announced that a portion of Uhuru Highway in Nairobi will be temporarily closed to traffic to allow for essential repair and maintenance works, a move expected to ease congestion and improve road safety once completed. The authority says the closure is necessary to address deteriorating road conditions that have posed risks to motorists and commuters.
In a statement released on Friday, KenHa explained that the works will affect a section of Uhuru Highway between City Cabanas Roundabout and State House Roundabout, where potholes and pavement distress have worsened due to heavy traffic volumes and prolonged wear. The repairs will involve resurfacing damaged sections, restoring road markings, and ensuring proper drainage to prevent recurrent pothole formation.
KenHa said the temporary closure will take effect from [insert specific start date if known] and is expected to last several days, depending on weather conditions and progress on the ground. Motorists are advised to plan ahead and use alternative routes to avoid delays. Suggested diversions include Outer Ring Road, Riverside Drive, and Ngong Road for city-bound traffic, and Waiyaki Way or Mombasa Road for vehicles heading out of Nairobi.
The authority emphasised that the closure is part of broader efforts to enhance the road’s durability and service level. “Uhuru Highway is one of Nairobi’s key transport arteries,” a KenHa official said. “It carries thousands of vehicles daily, including public service vehicles, commercial transport and private cars. These repairs are intended to improve safety, reduce vehicle operating costs and ensure smoother journeys for all road users.”
KenHa also assured the public that work crews will adhere to safety protocols, including clear signage and traffic control measures, to minimise risks for road workers and motorists alike. The authority urged drivers to follow traffic officers’ directions and to drive with caution when approaching the work zone.
Stockholm Road and Ragati Road are among other connected routes that have in the past borne the brunt of congestion when main highways undergo maintenance. Traffic experts caution that temporary closures on busy corridors like Uhuru Highway can lead to increased congestion on alternative routes, especially during peak hours. They advised commuters to allow extra travel time, consider flexible working hours where feasible, and use real-time traffic updates to make informed travel decisions.
Local businesses and commuters welcomed the announcement, with some acknowledging that while short-term disruptions are inevitable, well-executed repairs will benefit motorists in the long run. “It’s inconvenient in the short term, but potholes on Uhuru Highway have been a major source of vehicle damage and delays,” said one motorist. “If this project fixes the worst sections, it will be worth the temporary closure.”
The temporary shutdown also coincides with other road improvement projects across Nairobi as authorities step up efforts to modernise the city’s transport infrastructure. Recent initiatives have included resurfacing major junctions, upgrading drainage systems on key roads, and installing pedestrian safety features such as raised crossings and reflective markers.
KenHa reiterated that it will provide regular updates on progress and any changes to the schedule as work advances. Motorists and residents are encouraged to follow the authority’s official communication channels for timely information on road conditions, detours and safety guidelines.
Image by Construction Today
