Traffic delays as police mount roadblocks across Nairobi ahead of Saba Saba
By William Muthama, July 7, 2026Many Kenyans in Nairobi woke up on Monday, July 7, to slow-moving traffic and heightened security as police mounted roadblocks and checkpoints across major roads leading into the Central Business District (CBD) ahead of planned Saba Saba demonstrations.
A spot check by K24 Digital showed police had mounted roadblocks and security checkpoints on major roads leading into the Central Business District (CBD), slowing traffic and leaving many commuters stranded in long queues as they attempted to access the city.
Unlike a typical weekday morning when the CBD is bustling with workers, traders and pedestrians, parts of the city centre witnessed unusually little movement.
Several streets appeared less crowded than usual, while matatu operations were reduced in some areas as commuters struggled to make their way into the capital.
Major roads affected
Traffic delays were reported on several major highways, including Mombasa Road, Thika Road, Jogoo Road, Kiambu Road, Ngong Road, Waiyaki Way and Uhuru Highway.
On Mombasa Road, vehicles moved slowly as motorists approached police checkpoints, with traffic stretching for long distances during the morning rush..
Along Thika Road, particularly around the Allsops area, motorists were caught in lengthy queues as police conducted security checks on vehicles heading towards the city.
Police also diverted traffic to service lanes in some sections, further slowing movement and increasing travel times for commuters.
Public service vehicles were among those affected, with some matatus stopped for inspections at various checkpoints.
Security heightened ahead of Saba Saba
The National Police Service (NPS) had announced the enhanced security measures on Monday, July 6, 2026, saying they were intended to maintain law and order during the annual Saba Saba commemorations.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud said police had not received any formal notification for demonstrations, adding that any unlawful gatherings would be handled in accordance with the law.
The increased deployment follows calls by some activists and lobby groups to hold demonstrations and commemorative activities on Saba Saba Day, which marks the July 7, 1990, pro-democracy protests that played a significant role in Kenya’s transition to multi-party democracy.