KeNHA Announces Temporary Closure Of Southern Bypass On Sunday

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced a temporary closure of the Southern Bypass in Nairobi on Sunday, October 29.

In a notice, the authority's Director General Kung'u Ndung'u revealed on Friday, October 27 that the closure will begin on Saturday, October 28 at midnight and last until the following day at 2:00 p.m.

"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 28, 2023, from Midnight to Sunday, October 29, 2023, at 2.00 pm," the statement read in part.

A notice by KeNHA announcing the closure of the Southern Bypass from Saturday, October 28, 2023, at Midnight to Sunday, October 29, 2023, at 2.00 p.m. /KENHA

KeNHA revealed that the closure will be to allow runners and participants to take part in the 2023 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.

"Motorists are advised to use Mombasa Road (A8) from Ole Sereni Interchange, through Uhuru Highway and vice versa as the alternative route," added KeNHA

All road users are further advised to follow the traffic signs and guidance as directed by traffic marshalls and Police.

The directive thus affects most roads, including Waiyaki Way, given that it is listed as an alternative route for lorries and trailers, which often use Southern Bypass.

On the other hand, motorists who were intending to use Langata Road (Galleria Mall) - Kikuyu via Southern Bypass were advised to use Dagoretti Road via Langata Road.

"Vehicles from Karen to Kikuyu via Southern Bypass will be able to use Southern Bypass to access Kikuyu from Karen through Dagoretti Road," added the notice.

The 20th edition of the Nairobi Marathon is expected to attract at least 22,000 people and will be held at the Southern Bypass near Carnivore. Among the participants include long-distance marathon runner Wilson Kiprop, African U20 Championships Silver medallist Fredrick Kiptoo and World Athletics registered athlete Faith Kimutai among others.

The races are set to kick off at 5:45 a.m. with the 21km wheelchair race, followed by both the 42km Marathon and Corporate Challenge at 6 AM.

The 21km Half Marathon and 10km Run will both kick-off at 6:45 AM and 8 AM respectively, while the last of the races will be a family affair with the 5km Family Fun Run poised for a 9:30 AM kick-off.

In an effort to reduce the carbon footprint, electric bikes will be deployed to follow and assist runners in case of health problems.

These silent, zero-emission vehicles will provide essential medical support while keeping the air clean for both participants and the city.

Runners crossing the finish line at the Stanchart Nairobi Marathon. /CAPITAL GROUP