The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a directive to all illegal occupants, traders, and owners of unauthorised structures along four major roads to clear the road reserves within 30 days. The notice, signed by Director General Eng. Luka Kimeli, identifies the affected routes as the Likoni–Ukunda–Lunga Lunga (A7) Road, the Kilifi–Malindi–Garsen–Witu (A7) Road, the Maili Tisa–Kitale (B14) Road, and the Eldoret–Nyaru (B124) Road.
KeNHA stated that the clearance is necessary to allow for planned infrastructure works, including service road improvements, construction of bus bays, and drainage rehabilitation along the listed corridors. The authority described the projects as part of its ongoing Performance-Based maintenance and safety enhancement programme, targeting improved road safety, better visibility for drivers, and reduced traffic congestion.
The authority cited the Kenya Roads Act, 2007, and the Traffic Act Cap 403 as the legal basis for the removal order, noting that illegal occupation of road reserves constitutes a criminal offence under Kenyan law. KeNHA emphasised that the directive covers traders and unauthorised structures along roads in Coast, Rift Valley, and North Rift regions.
All affected parties have been directed to remove their goods, structures, and any other encroachments from the road reserve before Thursday, October 29, 2026. KeNHA warned that any structures or goods still within the road reserves after that date would be demolished without further notice, and the cost of removal would be borne by the owners.
The Kenya National Highways Authority has provided contact information for members of the public with enquiries, including a toll-free line at 0800-211-244, a customer care line at 0700 423 606, and an email address at [email protected]. This allows traders and other stakeholders to seek clarification or report concerns regarding the directive.
The directive applies to five counties, although the specific counties were not mentioned in the report. However, based on the regions mentioned, the affected counties likely include Kilifi, Malindi, Vihiga, Trans Nzoia, and Uasin Gishu. The roads mentioned are critical transportation links, and the clearance efforts aim to enhance safety and reduce congestion.
KeNHA's move is part of a broader effort to maintain and improve Kenya's highway network. The authority's Performance-Based maintenance and safety enhancement programme aims to upgrade infrastructure, enhance road safety, and reduce traffic congestion. By clearing encroachments and undertaking infrastructure works, KeNHA seeks to improve the overall condition and safety of the national highways.
Key points
- The Kenya National Highways Authority has given traders 30 days to vacate roadsides along 4 major roads across 5 counties.
- Failure to comply with the directive will result in demolition of structures at the owners' cost.
- The clearance efforts aim to enhance road safety, reduce congestion, and improve overall highway conditions.
