Impact of Security Measures on Nairobi’s Transportation
On Monday morning, Kenyan long-distance travellers found themselves unable to continue their journeys as the government implemented security measures in anticipation of the planned Saba Saba protests. The situation led to widespread disruptions across the country’s capital, Nairobi.
Road Blockades and Transport Disruptions
Police authorities blocked major roads and highways leading into the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD), causing significant transportation challenges. Commuters from various parts of the city were left stranded, with matatus—local minibuses—ceasing operations entirely. This halt in transport services affected thousands of people attempting to reach their workplaces or other destinations.
The closure of key routes had a cascading effect on daily life. Bus and matatu operators along Waiyaki Way were forced to park near the Kabete Police Station, while the Kangemi Supermarket area saw a major highway barricaded, disrupting both transport and business activities. Commuters who attempted to access the CBD were left with no choice but to walk, adding to the chaos.
Specific Roads Affected
Several major roads leading into the CBD were closed as part of the security measures. These include:
- City Mortuary Roundabout on Ngong Road
- Roysambu Roundabout and Pangani area on Thika Road
- Kangemi Market and Waiyaki Way
- Ojijo Road Maasai Lodge area on Magadi Road
- Ruai Bypass Guru Nanak towards the town (Thika Road block)
- Roysambu footbridge
- Arwings Kodhek/DoD Roundabout
- Roysambu Roundabout towards town – totally closed
- Kiambu Road closed at the DCI
- Gitaru Interchange
- Valley Road
- Kasarani exit
- Nyayo Stadium
- Landhies Road
- Kenyatta Avenue
- Uhuru Highway
In addition, anti-riot police set up roadblocks between Rongai town and Multi-Media University, further complicating travel for those heading towards the city center.
Stranded Passengers and Railway Disruptions
The impact of the security measures was not limited to road traffic. On Sunday, July 6, Kenya Railways temporarily suspended the Madaraka Express train service, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded. The Nairobi-bound train was scheduled to depart Mombasa at 10pm, but the corporation canceled the trip due to technical issues.
Passengers expressed frustration over the lack of clear communication regarding refund policies for their tickets. One group of stranded travelers described their experience: “We have been here for more than two hours. We were from Summer Tides, but we got a notification from the SGR team around 30 minutes before arriving here that the 10pm train had been suspended. We are all here, stranded, not sure what is happening… There is no official communication.”
Businesses and Daily Life
The closures also had a significant impact on businesses within the CBD. Many establishments remained closed throughout the morning, as police barricaded major streets. This disruption affected not only commercial activity but also the daily routines of residents and workers in the area.
As the situation unfolded, commuters and long-distance travellers faced an uncertain future, with many unsure when normal transport services would resume. The combination of roadblocks, railway suspensions, and the broader political context of the Saba Saba protests created a challenging environment for those navigating Nairobi’s transportation network.
