Heavy security around Kasarani ahead of CHAN final showdown

A strong police deployment was visible along the Thika Superhighway near the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Saturday, August 30, 2025, hours before the highly anticipated African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) final.

Uniformed officers and convoys of police lorries patrolled the highway, creating a commanding presence far larger than seen during earlier matches.

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At key junctions, officers directed motorists and manned roadblocks, while the rumble of armoured vehicles reinforced the state’s resolve to maintain order as thousands streamed toward the venue.

The Moi International Sports Centre is expected to host nearly 48,000 fans for the showdown between debutants Madagascar and two-time champions Morocco.

President William Ruto, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and CAF President Patrice Motsepe are among the dignitaries set to attend the 6:00 pm kickoff, a match that will conclude the month-long tournament.

Road closures and diversions

On Friday, August 29, 2025, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) issued an advisory warning motorists of significant disruptions across key Nairobi routes.

From 6:00 am, partial closures on the Thika Superhighway began, with diversions channeling traffic from the Nairobi CBD through Kiambu Road at Exit 4, where a major roadblock was placed at Muthaiga.

Motorists travelling from Githurai into the city centre were advised to use the Githurai 44–Kiambu Road link, while those from Thika, Juja, and Ruiru heading toward Nairobi CBD were redirected through the Northern Bypass.

A roadblock at the Ruiru interchange compounded congestion, while fans heading to Mwiki were guided through the Ruaka–Baba Dogo–Lucky Summer–Nairobi River corridor. Pedestrians en route to the stadium were directed to use service lanes at Exits 4 and 7 for safer access.

Authorities stressed that the measures were necessary to guarantee the safety of fans, dignitaries, and visiting delegations.

The National Police Service had earlier confirmed that extra officers will be deployed and issued stern warnings against traffic violations.

“We urge all motorists to cooperate with officers on-site to ensure smooth traffic flow,” FKF’s statement read.