Police on Friday, September 5, 2025, closed sections of the Thika Superhighway to manage traffic during the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match between Harambee Stars and Gambia at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
In a traffic advisory released on Thursday, September 4, the National Police Service (NPS) confirmed that the traffic diversion will take effect from 6:00 am, with officers deployed along key routes for enforcement.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) urged motorists to plan and use alternative roads.
“Kasaranà bound? Big match day means traffic changes! On Friday, 5th September 2025, from 6 AM, diversions will affect Thika Road and routes to MISC Kasarani. Please take note of the temporary diversions and use alternative roads and plan,” FKF stated.
Alternative Routes for Motorists using Thika Road.
According to the police, motorists travelling from Nairobi CBD to Ruiru, Juja, and Thika have been directed to use Kiambu Road at exit 4, with a roadblock set up at Muthaiga.
Those heading from Thika Road to Mwiki will follow the Ruaka-Baba Dogo-Lucky Summer-Nairobi River-Mwiki route.
Drivers from Thika, Juja, and Ruiru heading to Nairobi CBD will be redirected to the Northern Bypass or Kiambu Road, where another roadblock will be mounted at the Ruiru interchange.
Those coming from Githurai and heading into the city centre have been advised to use the Githurai 44-Kiambu Road route.
Also Read:Â NPS Lists Roads to Be Closed and All Diversions Ahead of CHAN Final
Motorists travelling from Nairobi CBD to Kasarani Stadium without vehicle access passes will instead be directed to use service lanes at exits 7 and 8.
Police Deployment and Enforcement
NPS emphasised that additional police officers will be on the ground to ensure smooth traffic flow and warned that strict action will be taken against any motorists flouting the regulations on the road.
“The National Police Service continues to work collaboratively with relevant agencies and urges all motorists to cooperate with officers on-site to ensure smooth traffic flow. Additional police officers have been deployed and will take stern action against anyone violating traffic rules,” the advisory read.
Also Read:Â Heavy Traffic on Thika Road as Fans Head to Kasarani Stadium for Kenya vs Madagascar Match
The federation further reminded motorists that Kasarani Stadium has previously experienced similar traffic disruptions, including during the African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament.
With thousands of fans expected to attend the high-profile match, authorities have urged road users to remain vigilant, comply with the directives, and allocate extra time for their journeys.
Uproar Among Kenyans
Kenyans expressed their displeasure, criticizing the government for inconveniencing Kenyans over a match that has no impact on Kenya’s zero chances of qualifying for the World Cup. According to Soko analyst, the decision to close sections of the crucial highway was a sign of poor management.
“It is utterly irresponsible for the government to shut down Thika Road from 6:00 AM over a game scheduled for 4:00 PM. This level of mismanagement reeks of incompetence.
A functioning government should have the capacity, intellect, and courage to manage a sporting event without paralyzing one of the country’s busiest highways for an entire day,” said Soko Analyst.Â
According to Soko Analyst, “What we are witnessing is not just poor planning but the product of archaic recruitment systems that reward mediocrity instead of merit. Sports journalist Kevin Teya also questioned the rationale used to close the road ahead of an inconsequential match.
“Shutting down Thika Road at 6 a.m. for a World Cup qualifier that hardly matters and starts at 4 p.m. is completely absurd.”
@RecoinSole, an X user was also not amused. “What does Kasarani grounds have to do with Thika road? Hiyo football iishe!”
On his part, Ochieng Omullo argued that Kenya was sacrificing its sovereignty. “Thika Road is a vital road, but are we sacrificing our sovereignty for it?”
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