NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a seven-day notice directing roadside traders to clear all encroachments along sections of the Thika Superhighway, citing road safety concerns and the planned construction of designated bus bays.
In a public notice dated February 9, 2026, KeNHA said the clearance exercise will affect the Roysambu section in both directions and the Githurai section on the Nairobi-bound carriageway.
“Roadside traders are required to clear their wares from the road reserve within seven days of this notice,” KeNHA said.
The authority said the exercise is intended to pave the way for the construction of designated bus bays to improve passenger pick-up and drop-off, enhance safety, and reduce traffic congestion along the busy highway.
KeNHA noted that informal trading activities within the road reserve have contributed to traffic disruptions, pedestrian safety risks, and increased accidents, particularly during peak hours.
“The project forms part of KeNHA’s ongoing road safety improvement initiatives aimed at reducing accidents and ensuring unobstructed flow of traffic along the highway,” the notice said.
Thika Superhighway is one of Kenya’s busiest transport corridors, linking Nairobi to Kiambu County and serving thousands of commuters daily.
Encroachment of road reserves by traders and informal transport operators has long been a point of contention between authorities, traders’ associations, and civil society groups.
While KeNHA did not indicate whether alternative trading spaces would be provided, past enforcement actions along major highways have raised concerns over livelihoods, due process, and coordination with county governments.
Under the Roads Act and traffic management regulations, road reserves are public land protected for transport infrastructure and safety purposes.
However, Article 43 of the Constitution guarantees the right to livelihood, requiring state agencies to balance enforcement with humane and lawful implementation.
KeNHA urged affected traders to comply voluntarily to avoid enforcement measures, adding that inquiries can be directed to the authority through its official communication channels.
The notice was signed by Eng. Luka Kimeli, Ag. Director General, Kenya National Highways Authority.
