News25 June 2026 - 10:32

Nairobi CBD grinds to a halt as security tightens on Gen Z protest anniversary

Major streets in the city centre, usually bustling with activity largely deserted as cops maintained a heavy presence

by Tabnacha Odeny

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Nairobi's Central Business District came to a near standstill on Thursday as heightened security deployment and widespread business closures marked the anniversary of planned Gen Z demonstrations across the country.

Major streets in the city centre, usually bustling with activity, were largely deserted as security officers maintained a heavy presence in key locations. Businesses remained shuttered across most commercial zones, reflecting growing caution among traders and residents.

Areas including Koinange Street, Kimathi Street, Muindi Mbingu Street and the National Archives precinct were clear of civilian traffic, underscoring the scale of the disruption.

The intensified security operation extended beyond Nairobi, although the situation in many regional towns remained relatively calm. Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret and Meru reported gradual reopening of businesses, but economic activity remained subdued as uncertainty continued to hang over the day.

Several satellite commercial centres also experienced tension-driven slowdowns. Precautionary business closures were reported in Kitengela, Naivasha and Ngurumbani in Kirinyaga County.

In Kitengela, several businesses remain closed while security personnel have been deployed at key locations.

Traffic along Namanga Road is reported to be flowing normally. Businesses in Ngurubani Town, Kirinyaga County, remain closed.

In Nakuru, some businesses along Kenyatta Avenue were reported to have delayed opening this morning.

In Eldoret, anti-riot police continue to patrol key streets within the town.

Movement into Nairobi faced significant challenges as security checkpoints and roadblocks tightened access along major transport corridors.

On Mombasa Road, traffic ground to a halt at the Mlolongo roadblock near the Expressway entrance, with inbound vehicles caught in massive tailbacks.

Along Waiyaki Way near Kangemi Bridge and Ngong Road, enhanced police checkpoints and additional roadblocks further restricted access to the city.

Public transport vehicles are not being permitted beyond the Kenyatta National Hospital area towards the CBD.

The Thika Superhighway experienced disruptions after a bonfire blockade was reported at Rosters Corner, while police maintained a heavy presence at Njomoko Stage and Kiandutu Junction.

Motorists approaching the city from the Rongai axis also encountered restrictions following the establishment of a heavily fortified checkpoint outside Multimedia University on Lang’ata Road.

Within the capital, armed police officers maintained a strong presence around the Kenyatta Avenue-Uhuru Highway roundabout, where strict intersection checks were underway.

Elsewhere, security deployment remained visible but largely uneventful. Thika town centre and the White Line area recorded heavy law enforcement presence, while Machakos town remained operational despite an atmosphere described as tense and fluid.

In Kisii, police officers took up positions around Capital Roundabout, although no incidents had been reported. Mombasa remained calm, with the Pembe Za Ndovu area along Moi Avenue free of political gatherings or confrontations.

Despite the generally low public turnout reported in many areas, authorities warned that localised friction points could emerge.

Logistics operators and field teams were advised to avoid major transit hubs, anticipate sudden route closures and prepare for severe delays on roads leading into Nairobi.