NAIROBI, Kenya — Motorists using parts of the Southern Bypass and Ngong Road will face major traffic restrictions on Sunday, September 27, 2026, as Nairobi hosts the Grand Nairobi Race.
According to a traffic notice, the affected roads will be closed from midnight to 2pm, with the restrictions remaining in place for 14 hours to allow cyclists to compete along designated routes.
The closures will affect the Southern Bypass, part of Ngong Road at the Lenana Interchange, and the Uhuru Gardens/Carnivore stretch.
Roads to Be Closed
The notice lists three main sections that will be inaccessible to motorists during the event:
- Southern Bypass
- Ngong Road at Lenana Interchange
- Uhuru Gardens/Carnivore stretch
The closures will begin at 12am on Sunday, September 27, and are scheduled to remain in place until 2pm.
Motorists using the affected routes have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly.
Grand Nairobi Race to Feature Six Categories
The cycling event, organised under the Jubilee Group and themed “Live Free!”, will feature six categories targeting both competitive and recreational cyclists.
The categories are:
- Main Race — a competitive event focused on speed and endurance.
- Black Mamba — a high-intensity race for riders using traditional or heavy utility bicycles.
- Team Race — a competition for corporate teams and cycling clubs.
- Para-cycling — an inclusive competitive category for para-cyclists.
- Family Fun Ride — a recreational event for participants seeking a less competitive experience.
- Kiddies Race — a shorter course designed for young cyclists.
Uhuru Gardens to Host Start and Finish
Uhuru Gardens will serve as both the starting and finishing point for the races.
Participants will follow designated routes provided by organisers, with several U-turn points marked along the course.
The route map indicates U-turn points at NHC and the Inland Container Depot (ICD) along the Southern Bypass.
Another U-turn will be located at the Lenana Interchange on Ngong Road.
Main Race Covers 77.8 Kilometres
The main race will cover 77.8 kilometres, with riders completing two loops of the designated course.
The Black Mamba and para-cycling races will cover approximately 39 kilometres over a single loop.
The routes are designed to test riders across different levels of competition while allowing both professional-style racers and recreational participants to take part.
Family Ride Covers 20 Kilometres
The Family Fun Ride will cover approximately 20 kilometres.
The route will include a turn-off at the NHC Southern Bypass, with the shorter course intended to accommodate recreational riders.
Children will also have their own shorter course under the Kiddies Race, allowing younger cyclists to participate without taking on the longer competitive routes.
Motorists Advised to Plan Ahead
With the road closures beginning at midnight, motorists using the affected sections will face restrictions well before the races get underway.
The closures are expected to remain in force until 2pm, when the scheduled traffic restrictions are due to end.
The Grand Nairobi Race is expected to attract cyclists across competitive, corporate, para-sport, family and children’s categories, with Uhuru Gardens serving as the central event venue.
