NAIROBI, Kenya – Motorists in Nairobi should brace for major traffic disruptions this weekend as the capital gears up to host the Nairobi City Marathon on Sunday, July 6.
Organizers have announced an extensive list of road closures and traffic diversions, with several key routes set to be inaccessible from Saturday night through Sunday afternoon.
The event, which is expected to draw thousands of runners and spectators, will see major sections of the city shut down to ensure the safety of participants and the smooth operation of the race.
Full List of Road Closures & Timings
Saturday, July 5 – From 10:00 PM
- Nairobi Expressway (James Gichuru – JKIA): Closed in both directions until 3:00 PM Sunday. Airport travellers are advised to use alternative routes or plan for delays.
Sunday, July 6 – From Midnight
- Waiyaki Way inner lanes (Musa Gitau Road to Expressway entrance): Closed until 10:00 AM
- Mombasa Road / Southern Bypass – Likoni Road intersection: Closed until 11:00 AM.
All exits and entries into the city centre will be blocked. - Uhuru Highway:
Closed from Southern Bypass to Lang’ata Roundabout and Bunyala Roundabout to Kenyatta Avenue until 2:00 PM - Kenyatta Avenue (PanAfric Hotel to Uhuru Highway): Closed until 4:00 PM
- Other closures: University Way, Haile Selassie Avenue, Bunyala Road, Capital Centre, Popo Road, and Kapiti Road will all remain closed during the event.
Open Roads for Alternative Routes
Motorists can use:
- Thika Road
- Lang’ata Road
- Lusaka Road
- Southern Bypass
- Raila Odinga Road
Traffic Management in Place
Traffic marshals will be stationed across affected areas to guide motorists and manage diversions. Emergency and essential service vehicles will be allowed through.
The race route will pass through some of Nairobi’s most iconic landmarks, with both the start and finish lines set at Uhuru Park.
Authorities Urge Patience and Support
The Nairobi City Marathon is seen as a major opportunity to boost Kenya’s status as a destination for international athletics.
City officials have urged residents and motorists to cooperate with traffic authorities and support the event.
The marathon not only promotes healthy living but also provides a platform to showcase Nairobi as a world-class sporting city.
