Motorists in Nairobi will need to plan their movements early this Sunday after a key section of the Southern Bypass is set to be closed for several hours. The notice, issued by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), outlines a temporary disruption that is expected to affect traffic flow between Ole Sereni Interchange and Lang’ata Road Interchange.
According to the communication released on Tuesday, May 5, the closure will last for seven hours, starting at 6 AM and ending at 1 PM on May 10, 2026. The move is meant to create a safe environment for participants and organizers of the Nairobi Marathon, which will be taking place on the same day.
“The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) wishes to inform the public that the Nairobi Southern Bypass between Ole Sereni Interchange and Lang’ata Road Interchange will be temporarily closed on Sunday, May 10, 2026, from 6.00 am to 1.00 pm.
“This road closure is to facilitate the 2026 Nairobi Marathon event to take place,” read the notice in part.
To reduce inconvenience, KeNHA has provided an alternative route for motorists who would normally use the affected section. Drivers have been advised to use Mombasa Road, particularly the stretch from Ole Sereni Interchange to the Nyayo National Stadium roundabout, in order to connect to Lang’ata Road without major disruption.
Past Nairobi City marathon. Photo Courtesy: Standard Chartered.
“Motorists are, therefore, advised to use the Mombasa Road (A8) Highway from Ole Sereni Interchange to the Nyayo National Stadium Roundabout to access Langata Road as well as cooperate with the police and traffic marshals on site,” the notice added.
Authorities have also called on road users to remain patient and follow instructions from officers and marshals who will be deployed along the affected routes. Their role will be to manage traffic and ensure both safety and order during the marathon period.
The planned closure follows a similar situation just weeks ago when the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) temporarily shut down several roads along Ngong Road. That earlier closure was meant to support the Oloolua Forest Run 2026 and involved key sections such as Forest Line Road and areas around Embubul Junction and Gataka.
While such closures may cause short delays, they have become common during major public events in the city, especially those that attract large numbers of participants. Motorists are encouraged to stay updated and allow extra travel time during such periods.
