KeNHA orders removal of illegal structures, unapproved billboards along highways
Encroachments along road reserves have long posed challenges, often creating traffic hazards, blocking drainage systems, and disrupting planned road expansion and improvements.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a 30-day ultimatum for the removal of illegal structures and unapproved billboards along national highways.
The directive, issued on November 25, 2025, in the MyGov portal, comes amid growing concern over roadside encroachments that compromise road safety and hinder highway maintenance.
More To Read
- Kenya secures Sh407 million grant to upgrade Mau Summit–Malaba Road
- Mombasa Road to temporarily close Sunday for World AIDS Day half-marathon
- MPs fault State officers over mismanaged road projects
- Residents to receive Sh500 million compensation for Isiolo-Garbatulla-Modogashe road project
- KeNHA launches crackdown on unsafe sugarcane transport amid spike in road crashes
- City residents say Nairobi's illegal billboard cleanup favours some areas over others
KeNHA stated that it has “noted with concern the continued encroachment onto road reserves along national highways”, emphasising that unauthorised stalls, permanent structures, and outdated billboards are obstructing visibility and interfering with the upkeep of roads.
Under the Kenya Roads Act, 2007 (Sections 49 and 50), the Authority is empowered to regulate developments along road reserves and remove any installations that do not comply with the law.
The notice makes it clear that the campaign covers all forms of illegal roadside constructions, whether temporary or permanent, as well as billboards and advertisements that lack approval or have expired permits.
“All persons with illegal structures, businesses, developments, including unapproved and unrenewed billboards, advertisements and directional signs on road reserves are hereby required to remove them within thirty (30) days from the date of this notice,” the Authority declared.
KeNHA warned that those who ignore the notice will face direct consequences.
“Failure to comply will lead to enforcement action, including demolition and recovery of related costs, without further notice,” it said, signalling swift action once the deadline passes.
Encroachments along road reserves have long posed challenges, often creating traffic hazards, blocking drainage systems, and disrupting planned road expansion and improvements.
The Authority stressed that this move is aimed at restoring order, ensuring the safety of road users, and protecting public infrastructure.
To help residents avoid penalties or misunderstandings, KeNHA is advising anyone unsure about the status of their roadside structures or advertisements to seek guidance immediately.
The public can contact the Authority through the toll-free line 0800-211-244, call customer care at 0700 423 606, email [email protected], or visit the Road Reserve Department at KeNHA headquarters.
The Authority reiterated that compliance within the 30 days will prevent demolition and additional costs, emphasising the importance of adhering to regulations that safeguard national highways and public resources.
Top Stories Today
