Motorists in Nairobi on Thursday faced major traffic disruptions after police closed key roads leading to Nyayo National Stadium ahead of the high-stakes Morocco–Zambia match set for 5pm.
The closure, aimed at easing crowd movement and enhancing security, began at 8am and affected several major routes. Aerodrome Road from Madaraka Roundabout to Bunyala Roundabout was fully shut, while one lane was closed on Lang’ata Road between Madaraka and Lusaka Roundabout.
A section of Mombasa Road from Lusaka to Bunyala Roundabout was also temporarily blocked. Police advised motorists to seek alternative routes, with those from Mombasa Road urged to use Likoni and Enterprise Roads or divert via the Southern Bypass at Ole Sereni. Drivers from Lang’ata Road were advised to use Raila Odinga Road or Muhoho Road through Mbagathi Roundabout.
Authorities said the measures were necessary to manage the expected surge of football fans. The restrictions are part of new security measures following chaotic scenes during Kenya’s match against Morocco on August 10, when gates were broken, ticketless fans forced entry, and restricted zones were breached. Overcrowding became severe, with reports of tear gas being used outside the venue.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya on Wednesday chaired a high-level security meeting attended by CAF Head of Safety and Security Christian Emeruwa, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, and other senior officials. The meeting reviewed existing operations and agreed on additional steps to ensure order on match day.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen pledged full enforcement of the directives to protect Kenya’s standing and avoid future sanctions.
Apart from the Nyayo Stadium clash, Angola will face DR Congo at Kasarani at 7pm. The final group matches are set for Sunday, August 17, before the quarter-finals.
