KeNHA warns motorists as floods disrupt Mai Mahiu–Suswa–Narok road

Motorists using the Mai Mahiu–Suswa–Narok road are facing disruption after flooding cut off sections near Suswa, prompting the Kenya National Highways Authority to issue a safety advisory and deploy teams to restore access. The situation follows heavy rainfall that has left parts of the key highway impassable and raised concerns over road safety in the area.

In a statement released on April 16, the KeNHA said heavy rainfall had affected parts of the B7 road, particularly around Kedong Ranch near Suswa.

“The Mai Mahiu - Suswa - Narok (B7) Road experienced flooding and silt deposition on several sections at Kedong Ranch near Suswa,” the authority said.

The affected stretch is a vital transport link across the Rift Valley, widely used by both private motorists and commercial vehicles. Disruption along this corridor has the potential to slow movement between major towns and impact transport and logistics.

KeNHA said it had already deployed response teams on the ground and was working to restore access as soon as possible.

“The Authority is currently working to reopen the affected sections of the road,” the statement said.

Drivers have been warned against attempting to cross flooded areas, with the authority cautioning that such actions could be dangerous.

“Motorists are advised to avoid driving through flooded areas and to strictly follow instructions from police officers and traffic marshals to prevent being swept away or getting stuck in silt deposits,” the authority warned.

The advisory comes as heavy rains continue to pound the region, increasing the risk of further damage and additional interruptions along the road network.

KeNHA drew attention to a particularly risky section between Naivasha Inland Container Depot and Suswa Ranch, urging drivers to take extra care.

“Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution when driving along various sections of the road, particularly between Naivasha ICD (Km 14) and Suswa Ranch (Km 39),” the statement added.

Motorists yet to begin their journeys have been encouraged to consider alternative routes to avoid delays and danger.

“Motorists who have not yet commenced their journeys are advised to consider using the Narok - Njoro - Nakuru (B18) Road as an alternative route,” the authority said.

KeNHA assured road users that efforts to clear the flooded sections and restore normal traffic flow were ongoing, with safety remaining a top priority.

Flooding continues to pose a recurring challenge to road infrastructure in many parts of the country during periods of heavy rainfall, often leading to closures, delays and a higher risk of accidents.

Authorities have repeatedly cautioned that driving through flooded sections can be life-threatening due to strong water currents and hidden hazards beneath the surface.

KeNHA Director General Luka Kimeli reiterated the agency’s commitment to resolving the situation and maintaining safety on the country’s highways.

The authority also encouraged motorists to use its official communication channels to get updates or report concerns as work continues on the ground.

As recovery efforts progress, drivers planning to use the Mai Mahiu–Suswa–Narok road have been urged to plan ahead, avoid unnecessary travel through flooded areas and prioritise safety.