Major city traffic disruptions tomorrow for CHAN matches

A section of the Nairobi Expressway and Mombasa Road at Ole Sereni interchange on December 20, 20204. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

Motorists in Nairobi have been advised to prepare for major traffic disruptions on Thursday, August 7, as the city plays host to two high-profile matches in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Residents are urged to plan their movements early and consider using public transport where possible to ease congestion.

Nairobi County Police Traffic Commander Joseph Chirchir announced a series of road closures and diversions to facilitate movement to and from Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums, where the two matches will take place.

Kenya is set to face Angola at 7:00pm at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, while DR Congo will take on Zambia at 4:00pm at Nyayo National Stadium.

"These matches are expected to attract large crowds and significant vehicular traffic. To ensure the safety and smooth flow of vehicles and fans, we have put in place a detailed traffic management plan," said Chirchir.

The following roads will be temporarily closed. Aerodrome Road from Madaraka Roundabout up to Bunyala Roundabout.

Lang'ata Road from Madaraka Roundabout to Lusaka Roundabout, and Mombasa Road from Lusaka Roundabout to Bunyala Roundabout (one side only).

These closures will be enforced ahead of the matches and are expected to remain in effect until the end of the games.

To ease congestion, police have directed motorists to use alternative routes.

If coming from Mombasa Road to CBD, use Likoni-Enterprise Road at General Motors or the Southern Bypass via Ole Sereni.

If coming from Lang'ata Road to the CBD, motorists are advised to use Raila Odinga Road or Muhoho Road at Mbagathi Roundabout.

From CBD to Thika Road/Ruiru/Juja/Thika, Limuru Road, or Kiambu Road are alternative routes.

Motorists ferrying passengers to Kasarani are advised to use Ruaraka-Baba Dogo Road, then Ngomongo Road to Ngomongo Roundabout.

A section of Thika Superhighway at Roysambu drift [File]

Those coming from Thika Road to CBD can use Eastern Bypass, Kiambu Road, or Limuru Road.

"We ask for cooperation and patience from the public. Our officers will be on the ground to guide motorists and ensure the safety of all road users," Chirchir said.

The CHAN 2024 tournament has brought a festive mood to Nairobi, coming with logistical challenges for traffic authorities. Police have assured that adequate security and traffic marshals will be deployed across affected areas.