NPS: Southern Bypass Closure for Nairobi Marathon Announced

• The National Police Service announced a full closure of the Nairobi Southern Bypass and partial restrictions on Lang’ata Road and Ngong Road for the 23rd Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.
• The Nairobi Southern Bypass road closure October 2026 will be in effect from midnight on Saturday, October 24, until 3 pm on Sunday, October 25, 2026, covering the stretch from Ole Sereni Interchange to Kikuyu Town.
• Specific diversion routes have been provided for motorists approaching from Mombasa Road, Western Kenya, Kikuyu Bypass, Lang’ata, Karen, and the Lenana area.
• Motorists are urged to plan journeys in advance, use designated alternative routes, exercise patience, and comply with all traffic rules and instructions from officers.
• The NPS warned that stern action would be taken against any motorist found violating traffic regulations during the marathon's traffic management operation.

Lawyers advising clients with operations or personnel in Nairobi, particularly those involved in logistics, transportation, or time-sensitive travel, should inform them of these temporary road closures and diversions to avoid delays and potential penalties for traffic violations as warned by the NPS.

The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a traffic advisory announcing significant road closures and restrictions in Nairobi to facilitate the 23rd edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon. This comprehensive plan includes the complete closure of the Nairobi Southern Bypass, alongside partial restrictions on key arterial roads such as Lang’ata Road and Ngong Road, impacting travel for a full day.

The NPS Southern Bypass closure Nairobi Marathon arrangements will see the entire stretch from the Ole Sereni Interchange to Kikuyu Town inaccessible to motorists. This specific Nairobi Southern Bypass road closure October 2026 period is scheduled from midnight on Saturday, October 24, until 3 pm on Sunday, October 25, 2026. The closure is expected to significantly affect individuals traveling between Mombasa Road, Lang’ata, Karen, and areas situated to the west of Nairobi.

In addition to the main bypass closure, sections of Lang’ata Road and Ngong Road will experience partial closures and security restrictions. These specific areas, located near Uhuru Gardens and Nairobi National Park, are designated for various marathon-related activities. The National Police Service Kenya traffic advisory strongly urges all motorists to meticulously plan their journeys in advance and utilize the officially designated alternative routes to mitigate congestion during this period.

To manage the expected traffic flow during the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon diversions, the NPS has outlined specific alternative routes for drivers approaching the affected roads from various directions. Motorists originating from Mombasa Road and the Inland Container Depot (ICD) will be redirected onto Mombasa Road and Uhuru Highway, guiding them towards Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD).

For those traveling from Western Kenya or utilizing the Kikuyu Bypass, the advisory suggests using James Gichuru Road or Waiyaki Way, depending on their ultimate destination, to access the CBD and Mombasa Road. Drivers approaching from Lang’ata and Karen will encounter restricted access to the Southern Bypass and are advised to use Lang’ata Road, Dagoretti Road, and Ngong Road as alternative paths, based on their specific destinations.

Furthermore, motorists in the Lenana area along Ngong Road who are heading towards Kikuyu should opt for Waiyaki Way via Naivasha Road or James Gichuru Road. Conversely, those from the same area intending to reach Mombasa Road are directed to use Lang’ata Road via Karen Road. The NPS has confirmed its collaboration with relevant agencies to effectively manage traffic and ensure the smooth execution of the marathon.

The National Police Service has issued a stern warning regarding compliance with traffic regulations during the marathon period. Motorists are explicitly asked to exercise patience, adhere strictly to traffic rules, and follow all instructions provided by police officers and marshals deployed along the affected routes. This emphasis on compliance is critical for maintaining order and ensuring the safety of both participants and the public during the Kenya road closures marathon event.

Lawyers advising clients with operations or personnel in Nairobi, particularly those involved in logistics, transportation, or time-sensitive travel, should inform them of these temporary road closures and diversions to avoid delays and potential penalties for traffic violations as warned by the NPS. The police have unequivocally stated that stern action will be taken against any motorist found violating traffic regulations throughout this traffic management operation. It is imperative for all road users to allow extra travel time, diligently observe all road signs, and confirm their routes before embarking on their journeys on Sunday.

The annual Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon is a significant event that draws numerous runners and spectators to the capital city. Consequently, these temporary traffic arrangements are essential not only to facilitate the participants but also to uphold public safety across the affected areas. The extensive nature of the closures underscores the importance of public awareness and cooperation.

The impact of these Lang'ata Road Ngong Road traffic restrictions and the Southern Bypass closure extends beyond individual commuters, potentially affecting businesses reliant on timely transportation and logistics. Therefore, understanding and adhering to the NPS directives are crucial for minimizing disruption and ensuring a smooth experience for everyone involved or impacted by the marathon activities. Planning ahead is the single most effective strategy to navigate these temporary changes.

Lawyers advising clients with operations or personnel in Nairobi, particularly those involved in logistics, transportation, or time-sensitive travel, should inform them of these temporary road closures and diversions to avoid delays and potential penalties for traffic violations as warned by the NPS.

Source: Original reporting based on a National Police Service advisory.