NPS announces major road closures, diversions ahead of Jamhuri Day fete
By Kiprono Keileb, December 11, 2025The National Police Service (NPS) has announced a series of temporary road closures and traffic diversions that will take effect in Nairobi on Friday, December 12, 2025, as the country marks the 2025 Jamhuri Day celebrations. The changes will affect key routes leading to and around Nyayo National Stadium, where the national event will take place.
The police said in a statement posted on X on Thursday, December 11, 2025, the measures are meant to ensure public safety, manage traffic efficiently, and support security preparations for the annual celebrations, which traditionally draw large crowds and heightened movement across the city.
In its public notice, NPS outlined the specific routes that will be inaccessible to motorists during the event window.
“To ensure public safety and the smooth management of the 2025 Jamhuri Day Celebrations, to be held on 12th December 2025 at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, the National Police Service wishes to notify the public of temporary road closures and traffic diversions. These will be in effect from 7:00 am on Friday, December 12, 2025, until 3:00 pm on the same day,” the statement read.
Roads to experience disruption and diversion
The Aerodrome/Wakihuri Road will be fully closed, while a major segment of the Nairobi Expressway will also be out of use.
“The Nairobi Expressway will be closed in both directions between the Capital Centre and Bunyala,” NPS announced.
Motorists using Lang’ata Road will also be redirected.
“Motorists travelling on Langata Road will be diverted via the Madaraka Roundabout to the Lusaka Roundabout,” the service said.
Expressway users will face mandatory exits depending on their direction of travel.
“All vehicles on the Express Way from Westlands will exit at the Bunyala exit. All vehicles on the Express Way from Mlolongo will exit at the Capital Centre exit,” NPS explained
The traffic reshuffle is expected to affect significant parts of the city, and the police have deployed officers along the routes to guide motorists and ease movement.
NPS also appealed for cooperation amongst the motorists.
“All motorists are urged to be patient, to strictly adhere to traffic rules and regulations, and to follow the guidance of officers stationed along the affected routes. Stern action will be taken against anyone found violating these regulations,” the statement added.
The service noted it is working closely with other government agencies to ensure the national celebration proceeds smoothly.
The Jamhuri Day ceremony marks Kenya’s independence and transition to a republic, and preparations for the event are already underway at Nyayo Stadium, where tight security and controlled access are expected.