Saba Saba Maandamano: Full List of Roads Closed in Nairobi Today (July 7, 2025)
Kenyans in Nairobi woke up today to a capital city under lockdown as police blocked key roads in anticipation of the Saba Saba Maandamano (July 7 protests). With demonstrations planned across the country, security forces sealed off multiple routes into the city center, leaving thousands of commuters stranded and many businesses shut.
Here’s a full breakdown of all the roads that were closed, the affected areas, and what this means for movement within the capital today.
Roads Closed by Police in Nairobi
1. Thika Road
- Blocked at Roysambu, Kasarani, Guru Nanak and surrounding areas.
- Motorists turned away as early as 6am.
- Heavy police presence at footbridges and exits.
2. Mombasa Road & Nairobi Expressway
- Closed at General Motors, Sameer Business Park, and Expressway entrances.
- Long stretches of the road and expressway left completely deserted.
- Traffic redirected at Mlolongo and other entry points.
3. Waiyaki Way
- Blocked at Kangemi flyover.
- Buses were forced to offload passengers at Kabete.
- Traffic diverted through inner roads.
4. Ngong Road
- Sealed at City Mortuary roundabout.
- Valley Road and connecting sections also blocked.
- Police placed barricades at strategic points.
5. Uhuru Highway & Kenyatta Avenue
- Multiple sections inaccessible.
- Police blocked intersections leading to the CBD.
- No public service vehicles allowed through.
6. Jogoo Road
- Closed at City Stadium and Nyayo Stadium roundabouts.
- Traffic redirected before reaching CBD zones.
7. Kiambu Road
- Blocked near the DCI/CID headquarters.
- Heavy traffic build-up reported around Muthaiga.
8. Juja Road
- Access denied near Pangani and Eastleigh turn-offs.
- Roadblocks erected at police stations and bus stops.
9. Kangundo Road
- Barricades at Njiru and near Mama Lucy Hospital.
- Public transport shut down in many areas.
10. Landhies Road & Bunyala Roundabout
- Police barricaded entry at key junctions leading into town.
- Officers turning away vehicles from entering Gikomba area.
11. Roundabouts under lockdown
- Roysambu, DoD, Madaraka, Bunyala, and Globe Roundabouts were all under tight police control.
- Pedestrians searched or denied entry to the inner city.
Nairobi CBD Situation
The central business district remained eerily quiet, with most shops closed and offices choosing to remain shut. Public transport was either minimal or completely unavailable as matatus avoided routes with heavy police presence.
There was also:
- A visible show of force from riot police in full gear.
- Use of water cannons and teargas reported in parts of Gikomba, Kariobangi, and Mathare where early morning protests had begun.
- Limited pedestrian access, with some people forced to walk long distances to work or back home.
Advice for Commuters and Residents
If you’re in Nairobi today:
- Avoid the CBD and surrounding areas unless absolutely necessary.
- Stay updated through trusted local news sources or local WhatsApp alert groups.
- Use alternative outer routes if essential travel is needed (though many of these were also blocked).
- Prepare for disruptions into the evening as the situation remains fluid.
Why the Roads Are Closed
The closures come in response to planned Saba Saba protests organized by civil society, youth groups, and Gen Z activists. The demonstrations commemorate the historic July 7 pro-democracy struggle in Kenya, but this year, they are also a protest against police brutality, economic hardship, and recent political controversies.
Authorities said the lockdowns are aimed at “ensuring public safety”, while human rights groups have warned against excessive use of force.
As the situation develops, it’s clear that Nairobi has come to a standstill today. Whether you’re at home, at work, or on the road, stay alert, stay safe, and be informed.
