The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a 30-day deadline to property owners and advertisers with unauthorized structures or billboards on national road reserves, warning that failure to comply will result in demolition and cost recovery.
The notice, published in My Gov on November 25, 2025, is part of the Authority’s efforts to tackle increasing encroachments along major highways, which it says are threatening safety and disrupting road management.
In its statement, KeNHA said it has “noted with concern the continued encroachment onto road reserves along National Highways,” highlighting that illegal structures and unapproved signage have affected visibility, impeded maintenance, and created traffic risks.
The Authority reminded the public that it is empowered under the Kenya Roads Act, 2007 (Sections 49 and 50) to regulate roadside developments and remove unauthorized installations from road reserves. The latest directive applies to a wide range of violations, including makeshift stalls, permanent structures, and billboards that are unapproved or have expired.
“All persons with illegal structures, businesses, developments including unapproved and unrenewed billboards, advertisements and directional signs on road reserves are hereby required to remove them within thirty (30) days from the date of this notice,” the statement emphasized.
KeNHA made it clear that ignoring the warning will not be tolerated. “Failure to comply will lead to enforcement action, including demolition and recovery of related costs, without further notice,” the Authority said, signaling that once the 30-day period expires, it will act decisively to clear all illegal encroachments.
The misuse of road reserves has long been a challenge, often leading to traffic hazards, obstructed drainage, and interference with planned road improvements. The Authority stressed that this campaign seeks to restore order, safeguard road users, and ensure proper use of public infrastructure.
To avoid penalties, KeNHA encourages anyone uncertain about the legality of their roadside structures or advertisements to seek clarification immediately.
Members of the public can contact the Authority via the toll-free line 0800-211-244, call customer care at 0700 423 606, email [email protected], or visit the Road Reserve Department at KeNHA headquarters.
