Nairobi experienced major traffic disruptions on Tuesday morning as police increased security operations ahead of the Saba Saba commemorations.
Thousands of motorists and commuters were caught up in long queues after officers mounted roadblocks and intensified checks on major roads leading into and within the Central Business District (CBD).
The security operation involved vehicles being screened at several checkpoints, with some roads partially or completely blocked as police restricted access to parts of the city centre.
On Thika Road, motorists faced delays after police established checkpoints at Blue Post, Ruiru, Githurai, Allsops and Kimbo. Nairobi-bound traffic was diverted to the Kimbo service lane, resulting in heavy congestion during the morning rush hour.
Some commuters were forced to walk towards the city after public service vehicles were stopped before reaching the CBD. Drivers who encountered delays sought alternative routes to avoid the long queues caused by the security checks.
Similar operations were reported along Mombasa Road, Uhuru Highway, Jogoo Road, Lang’ata Road, Kiambu Road, Valley Road and Waiyaki Way, where police officers conducted vehicle searches and controlled movement into the city centre.
Along Jogoo Road, vehicles were turned away at the City Stadium Roundabout, leaving many Nairobi residents to continue their journeys on foot after matatus and buses were stopped from proceeding towards the CBD.
Heavy traffic built up along Thika Road in Juja after police mounted roadblocks, forcing many public service vehicles operating on the Thika–Nairobi route to turn back ahead of the Saba Saba commemorations. (Photo: Barrack Oduor)
Witnesses reported heavy police deployment around the City Stadium area, with officers maintaining barricades near Nacico Plaza and screening pedestrians attempting to access the city centre.
Police also increased their presence at strategic locations across the capital as part of efforts to maintain security during the commemorations.
Anti-riot officers were deployed across the city, while razor-wire barricades were installed on some roads leading to key government offices and Parliament.
At some checkpoints, only emergency service vehicles and selected government vehicles were allowed to pass, while most private vehicles and public service vehicles were redirected.
Several businesses in the CBD remained closed or had delayed opening, while some schools and private institutions advised learners and staff to stay away from the city centre as a precaution.
The heightened security measures follow an announcement by police on Monday that enhanced checkpoints would be erected on various Nairobi roads ahead of anticipated Saba Saba demonstrations.
Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV, Police Spokesperson Michael Muchiri said police had not been officially notified of any protests but had heard rumours and would carry out their duties within the law.
“We are not aware of a protest. There have been rumours, talk about rumours, but we have to stick with the law,” Muchiri said.
Thika Road remains largely deserted. (Photo: Justine Ondieki)
He pointed to legal requirements for public demonstrations, noting that organisers must formally notify authorities before holding a protest or picket.
Saba Saba, observed every July 7, commemorates the 1990 movement that pushed for the return of multiparty democracy in the country.
The first Saba Saba protests were held on July 7, 1990, when pro-democracy activists demanded political reforms under the then KANU government.
Over the years, the anniversary has become a platform for civic action, with activists and civil society organisations using the day to push for governance reforms, constitutional rights and accountability.
This year’s commemorations come amid political tensions following recent anti-government protests, allegations of police brutality and renewed calls for accountability over deaths, injuries and enforced disappearances linked to demonstrations.
Human rights organisations and sections of the opposition have maintained that citizens have a constitutional right to peaceful assembly, while security agencies have said they are mandated to maintain law and order and protect lives and property during public demonstrations.
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