April 7, 2025 – Nairobi, Kenya — The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced the commencement of a one-month traffic disruption at the busy Haile Selassie roundabout in Nairobi, starting today, to facilitate the construction of a pedestrian underpass aimed at improving road safety and easing congestion.
According to KeNHA, the project is part of a broader infrastructure upgrade initiative intended to enhance pedestrian mobility within the central business district. The roundabout, a key intersection that links Mombasa Road, Kenyatta Avenue, and Moi Avenue, experiences heavy vehicular and foot traffic daily.
Motorists Urged to Plan Ahead
KeNHA has issued an advisory to all motorists and public transport operators to adhere to traffic management plans that have been put in place to minimize inconvenience. Alternative routes have been marked, and traffic marshals will be deployed to assist with flow and ensure public safety during the construction period.
“We appeal to all road users to exercise patience and cooperate with traffic officers on the ground,” said KeNHA Director General Eng. Kungu Ndungu. “The short-term disruption will lead to long-term gains in traffic efficiency and pedestrian safety.”
Impact on Public Transport and Businesses
Commuters have been advised to expect delays during peak hours, especially those accessing key areas such as the Nairobi Railway Station, Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), and various government offices. Matatu operators plying the busy Mombasa Road and CBD routes are also adjusting schedules and routes in response to the temporary changes.
Local businesses in the vicinity have expressed mixed reactions—some welcoming the improvements, others concerned about the potential drop in foot traffic during the construction.
A Push for Pedestrian Safety
The pedestrian underpass is one of several infrastructure upgrades initiated under the Nairobi Urban Mobility Plan, which aims to reduce accidents involving pedestrians and non-motorized road users. Nairobi continues to grapple with high pedestrian fatalities, and such projects are seen as critical to improving road safety in the capital.
Construction is expected to be completed by early May, weather and logistics permitting.
