Major roads to close in Nairobi ahead of Africa Forward Summit

Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud and Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga address the media in Nairobi on May 9, 2026. [Boniface Okendo, Standard]

Several roads in Nairobi will be closed or experience temporary traffic disruptions during the Africa Forward Summit scheduled for May 11-12, 2026, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

The summit will be co-chaired by President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Other expected attendees include United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.

Speaking during a briefing on preparations for the event, Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud said roads within the Central Business District that will be closed include City Hall Way, Harambee Avenue, and Parliament Road.

He added that Mombasa Road, Thika Road, and Limuru Road will experience temporary disruptions and partial closures.

“There will also be partial closures around hotels hosting delegates and heads of state, as well as areas surrounding summit venues within the city,” Mohamud said.

The police boss further said that traffic will be intermittently stopped to allow the passage of presidential motorcades and other official convoys. “There will also be restricted access to certain zones for both vehicles and pedestrians.”

Mohamud, however, assured the public that businesses would remain open during the summit and urged traders to continue with their normal activities.

He advised motorists and members of the public to plan their travel in advance to minimise inconvenience.

The police commander also said security agencies had put in place measures to ensure safety during the event.

“Our officers are under firm instructions to maintain vigilance, professionalism, and courtesy at all times to ensure a safe and successful event,” said Mohamud.