NAIROBI, Kenya– The build-up to Kenya’s historic quarterfinal clash against Madagascar at Kasarani has started long before kickoff—and not just inside the stadium.
Hours before the 5 p.m. showdown, Nairobi motorists were already feeling the heat as major road closures and diversions along Thika Superhighway triggered massive traffic jams.
In photos seen by Y News, long lines of vehicles across the Northern Bypass, the result of police diversions put in place ahead of the sold-out CHAN 2024 fixture.
Fans without vehicle access passes, many eager to make it to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, found themselves redirected to alternative lanes and service routes.
The National Police Service confirmed several traffic changes to manage the expected rush:
- Motorists from Nairobi CBD heading to Thika Road (Ruiru/Juja/Thika) must now use Kiambu Road via Exit 4, with a roadblock stationed at Muthaiga.
- Vehicles using Thika Superhighway to Mwiki are being diverted through Ruaka–Baba Ndogo–Lucky Summer–Nairobi River–Mwiki.
- Travelers from Thika, Juja, and Ruiru to Nairobi CBD have two options—the Northern Bypass or Kiambu Road—since a roadblock is in place at the Ruiru Interchange.
- From Githurai to Nairobi CBD? The new route goes via Githurai 44 to Kiambu Road.
- And for fans driving to Kasarani without access passes, the police say: stick to the service lanes at Exit 7 and Exit 8.
Extra police officers have been deployed along these points, with authorities promising firm action against traffic rule violators. Motorists have been urged to cooperate to avoid further delays.
Stadium Fever Meets City Gridlock
With Kasarani now allowed to operate at 80% capacity, tens of thousands of fans are expected to throng the stadium. That anticipation is exactly what has turned Nairobi’s roads into a test of patience today.
Authorities are encouraging early travel and strict adherence to diversions to ensure a smoother flow.
Still, for many, the pre-match journey has already turned into its own endurance game—complete with honking, gridlocked lanes, and frustrated motorists watching the clock tick down to kickoff.
As Kenya gears up for its biggest CHAN night yet, one thing is already certain: getting to Kasarani today is as much a battle as the match itself.
