The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced a month-long traffic disruption on the Thika Superhighway (A2S) starting November 15, 2026, and ending December 20, 2026. This disruption will affect the Kihunguro section of the highway, which is a critical route connecting Nairobi to central and upper eastern regions of Kenya. The works are part of a larger infrastructure project aimed at improving the highway corridor.
According to KeNHA, the traffic disruption is necessary for urgent engineering operations to advance structural development along the highway. The authority explained that the closure of specific sections will allow for the pre-assembly of the bridge superstructure and subsequent heavy hoisting procedures. This process requires optimal clearance to protect both motorists and site personnel during the complex bridge assembly and positioning stages.
To mitigate the impact of the disruptions, KeNHA has outlined a clear traffic management plan. Motorists heading out of Nairobi toward Thika will be directed to use alternative routes around the active work zones. Outbound traffic from Nairobi to Thika will be guided via a diversion through Shell Petrol Station back to the highway or behind Shell Petrol Station to rejoin Thika Superhighway.
The authority has stressed that clear directional signage and temporary road markings will be erected to alert drivers. Motorists are urged to exercise caution when approaching the Kihunguro corridor, reduce speed around designated work spaces, and adhere to instructions provided on-site. Additionally, traffic marshals and officers from the National Police Service will be stationed along the affected sections to direct traffic flow and minimize delays.
Commuters using public transport have been advised to factor in extra travel time, particularly during peak commuting windows, or explore alternative routes where viable. The disruptions are expected to cause significant morning and evening rush-hour buildup due to the heavy volume of private vehicles, public service vehicles (PSVs), and long-distance commercial trucks that utilize the Thika Superhighway daily.
KeNHA has urged motorists to cooperate with the police and traffic marshals on site and follow the proposed traffic management plan. The authority hopes that the temporary inconveniences will ultimately yield a safer and more efficient transit network for pedestrians and motorists navigating the bustling Kihunguro node. The construction window is set to conclude by December 20, 2026.
The Thika Superhighway is a critical transportation artery in Kenya, and the infrastructure works aim to enhance its capacity and safety. KeNHA's efforts to improve the highway corridor are part of a broader strategy to upgrade Kenya's transportation network and promote economic growth.
Key points
- The traffic disruption on Thika Superhighway is scheduled from November 15 to December 20, 2026.
- The disruption is necessary for infrastructure works, including pre-assembly and hoisting of the bridge superstructure.
- KeNHA has implemented a traffic management plan to minimize the impact of the disruptions on motorists.
