The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced a temporary closure of the Nairobi Southern Bypass ahead of the 2026 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, urging motorists to make alternative travel arrangements.
In a notice issued on Monday, October 19, the authority said the closure would affect the section between Ole Sereni Interchange and Kikuyu Town.
The road will be closed from midnight on Saturday, October 24, until 2 pm on Sunday, October 25, to facilitate the marathon.
"The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) wishes to notify the Public that there will be a temporary closure of Nairobi Southern Bypass from Ole Sereni Interchange to Kikuyu Town on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at Midnight to Sunday October 25, 2026 at 2.00pm," KeNHA stated.
"This is to allow for the 2026 Standard Chatered Nairobi Marathon," it added.
Alternative Routes for Motorists
KeNHA advised motorists travelling through the affected areas to use designated alternative routes during the temporary closure.
Drivers heading from Kikuyu to Mombasa Road were advised to use Waiyaki Way, while those travelling from Kikuyu to Karen were directed to take Dagoretti Road.
Motorists travelling from Karen to Mombasa Road were asked to use Langata Road instead.
Those heading to Mombasa Road from Dagoretti were advised to use either Waiyaki Way or Ngong Road through Mbagathi Way.
For motorists travelling from Industrial Area to Kikuyu, the authority recommended using Mombasa Road and Uhuru Highway before connecting to Waiyaki Way.
Meanwhile, drivers coming from Likoni Road and heading towards Mombasa Road were advised to use Enterprise Road.
Motorists travelling from Mombasa Road towards Ole Sereni were directed to access Emaar Ole Sereni through Nextgen Mall.
KeNHA also identified Mombasa Road and Uhuru Highway as alternative routes for motorists seeking to bypass the affected section.
"Motorists are advised to use Mombasa Road (A8) from Ole Sereni Interchange through Uhuru Highway, and vice versa, as the alternative route," the authority added.
KeNHA Issues Safety Advisory
The authority urged drivers and other road users to exercise caution throughout the closure and comply with traffic regulations.
Motorists were also advised to observe road signs and follow instructions issued by traffic marshals and police officers deployed to manage traffic during the marathon.
"All road users are further advised to follow the traffic signs and guidance as directed by traffic marshals and Police," the notice added.
The temporary closure is expected to affect motorists using the Southern Bypass corridor on the day of the marathon, making it important for travellers to plan their journeys in advance and allow for possible delays.
