The Nairobi Southern Bypass will be temporarily closed this weekend to pave the way for the 2025 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced.
The Authority said the closure will begin at midnight on Saturday, October 25, and end at 2 pm on Sunday, October 26, 2025.
In a public notice dated October 17, KeNHA stated that the shutdown will affect the section between Ole Sereni Interchange and Kikuyu Town. The Authority explained that the decision aims to ensure the safety of marathon participants and efficient coordination of the event.
“KeNHA wishes to notify the public on the temporary closure of Nairobi Southern Bypass from Ole Sereni Interchange to Kikuyu Town on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at midnight to Sunday, October 26, 2025, at 2 pm,” read part of the notice.
According to the statement, motorists are advised to use Mombasa Road (A8) through Uhuru Highway as an alternative route during the closure. “This is to allow for the 2025 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon. Motorists are advised to use Mombasa Road (A8) from Ole Sereni Interchange, through Uhuru Highway, and vice versa,” it added.
KeNHA said it is working closely with the traffic police to manage diversions and minimize congestion during the marathon. Acting Director General Luka Kimeli urged motorists to be patient and obey instructions from officers and marshals stationed along the route. “We appeal to all road users to exercise patience and cooperate with our officers for a safe and successful event,” he said.
In its detailed traffic plan, KeNHA has outlined several alternative routes to ease movement across affected areas. Motorists heading from Dagoretti South to Kikuyu are advised to use Dagoretti Road, while those travelling between Lang’ata and Dagoretti South should use Lang’ata Road through Karen.
Drivers from Mombasa Road heading toward Kikuyu will be diverted through Uhuru Highway and Waiyaki Way.
The Authority has also indicated that roads around Karen and Lang’ata will remain open, with additional connecting routes available to facilitate access. Kimeli said the temporary closure highlights Kenya’s commitment to promoting international sports events while upholding road safety.
“The Standard Chartered Marathon is an important annual event that promotes sports tourism and enhances Nairobi’s image as an athletics hub,” he said.
The 2025 edition of the marathon, scheduled for Sunday, will feature several races, including the 42km full marathon, 21km half marathon, 10km run, 5km Family Fun Run, wheelchair race, and the CEO & Corporate Challenge.
Organisers said preparations have been finalized, with improved logistics, more hydration points, and tighter safety measures in place for the thousands of athletes expected to participate.
