As the African Nations Championship (CHAN) kicks off today, Sunday, August 3, 2025, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has issued a crucial travel advisory for passengers using Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Wilson Airport.

The alert follows major road closures and traffic disruptions across Nairobi, as the city hosts one of the tournament’s high-profile fixtures.

With Nairobi acting as a central host for the continental football event, logistical shifts are being rolled out to accommodate heightened security and the seamless movement of teams, officials, and fans.

Travellers are now being urged to factor in longer travel times and review their flight details to avoid delays.

“Nairobi is today hosting a key match of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), one of Africa’s premier football tournaments. To facilitate the smooth movement of teams, officials, and fans, and to enhance security around the match venue, several major roads in the city will be fully closed or partially restricted,” read the statement.

“Traffic disruptions are expected, affecting travel times to and from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Wilson Airport. Please refer to the table below for road closures and recommended diversions. Road Closures and Affected Areas: Recommended Alternative Routes,”

Key routes affected and diversions suggested

According to the advisory, key traffic arteries within Nairobi will be either fully or partially closed. Aerodrome Road will be completely closed from Madaraka roundabout to Bunyala roundabout.

Lang’ata Road will face partial closures on one side between Madaraka and Lusaka roundabouts, while Mombasa Road will also be partially closed from Lusaka to Bunyala roundabout.

To ease congestion, KAA has proposed alternative routes. Motorists coming from Mombasa Road toward the Central Business District (CBD) are advised to use the Likoni–Enterprise Road or the Southern Bypass. Those on Thika Road heading into the city can opt for the Eastern Bypass, Kiambu Road, or Limuru Road.

A detailed closure and diversion table has been included in KAA’s public notice to help drivers plan ahead.

Heightened urgency due to CHAN rescheduling

Originally slated for February, the CHAN tournament was postponed to August due to infrastructure delays, placing additional pressure on urban planning during the busy back-to-school and post-holiday season.

The late switch means Nairobi’s already strained road network is now accommodating a surge in international and local visitors.

KAA’s advisory emphasises the importance of preparation during this period, noting that passengers heading to either airport should allow for significantly more travel time than usual. “Passengers are strongly urged to check flight schedules and allow for prolonged travel times to ensure timely arrival at JKIA or Wilson Airport,” the notice reads.

Support channels open for passenger queries

KAA has opened multiple channels for enquiries and support during the period of disruption. Passengers can reach out via +254 20 661 1000 or +254 20 661 2000, or email [email protected]. For media-related questions or public updates, the Corporate Communications team can be reached at [email protected].

As the city embraces CHAN’s festive and sporting spirit, authorities are calling on the public to exercise patience, remain alert, and stay informed to ensure a smooth travel experience.