Nairobi Road Closures: Routes Motorists Should Avoid This Sunday
BREAKING NEWS | October 23, 2026
Motorists travelling around Nairobi this weekend have been warned to prepare for major road closures and traffic diversions ahead of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon scheduled for Sunday, October 25.
The event is expected to attract approximately 30,000 participants, including international runners. Police and traffic marshals will manage traffic along affected routes to protect runners and other road users.
According to the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), the planned restrictions are scheduled to begin at 11 p.m. on Saturday, October 24, and end at approximately 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 25.
Which Roads Will Be Affected?
The main restrictions will affect sections of the Nairobi Southern Bypass and interchanges connecting it to other major roads.
The affected areas include connections involving:
- Mombasa Road
- Lang’ata Road
- Ngong Road
- Dagoretti Road
- The Southern Bypass
The restrictions are intended to provide a safe route for marathon participants travelling between Uhuru Gardens and sections of the race course near Nairobi National Park.
Alternative Routes for Motorists
Drivers are advised to plan their journeys in advance and follow traffic officers’ directions.
According to the published traffic advisory:
- Karen to Kikuyu: Use Dagoretti Road.
- Karen towards Mombasa Road: Use Lang’ata Road.
- Lang’ata Road near Galleria Mall towards Kikuyu: Use Dagoretti Road.
- Kikuyu towards Mombasa Road: Consider Waiyaki Way, following the designated diversions.
- Lenana Road towards Kikuyu: Use Waiyaki Way via Naivasha Road or James Gichuru Road, as directed.
Access routes may vary depending on the specific road closure and direction of travel. Motorists should follow signs and instructions from police officers and traffic marshals.
Why Are the Roads Being Closed?
The closures are part of traffic and security arrangements for the 23rd edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.
The event includes a full marathon, half marathon, wheelchair race, 10km race and 5km family run, among other categories.
Organisers and authorities are coordinating the arrangements to allow runners to use the designated routes safely while limiting disruption to other road users.
What Should Nairobi Residents Do?
If you plan to travel on Sunday, consider leaving earlier than usual, checking traffic updates before departure and allowing extra time for your journey.
Public transport users may also experience delays near affected roads. Follow official traffic guidance and avoid attempting to drive through closed sections.
Road reopening times may depend on the progress of the event and traffic management arrangements, so check for updated notices before travelling.
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Information is based on reports available on October 23, 2026. Check official traffic announcements for any changes before travelling.
