The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has announced the temporary closure of Jamhuri Road in Nairobi for two days to allow essential maintenance and drainage construction works along the busy route.
According to a notice issued on Thursday, October 9, the closure will take effect from Friday, October 10, at 8:00 p.m. and remain in place until Sunday, October 12, at 11:00 p.m. The authority noted that the planned works are part of efforts to enhance sanitation and improve the road’s drainage system, especially ahead of the expected heavy rains.
KURA stated that the works will involve the construction of new drainage and sewer infrastructure aimed at preventing flooding and improving water flow management in the area. The authority emphasized that these developments are integral to the ongoing Talanta Sports City Project at the Jamhuri Sports Grounds, a major initiative by the government to modernize Kenya’s sports infrastructure.
Motorists have been advised to use alternative routes during the closure period, including Sanctuary Road and Kibera Drive, to ease traffic congestion and ensure minimal disruption to transport activities.
“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause during this period and urge motorists to adhere to the traffic guidance provided,” said KURA Director General Silas Kinoti in the statement.
The announcement comes just weeks after Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo disclosed that the government was undertaking extensive drainage works around Talanta Stadium to ensure both the functionality and structural durability of the Ksh44 billion mega project.
The Talanta Sports City, which broke ground in March 2024, is expected to have a seating capacity of 60,000 spectators. The ultra-modern facility will feature a hydraulic tension cable roof, seven changing rooms, VIP lounges, modern locker rooms, advanced media centres, VAR booths, and goal-line technology—making it one of Africa’s most technologically advanced sports arenas.
Speaking during a project inspection on September 18, PS Omollo said the stadium will not only host sporting events but also concerts, exhibitions, cultural festivals, and national celebrations. He added that the construction has already created thousands of job opportunities, particularly benefiting youth and women, thereby contributing to local economic growth.
“This facility will be the largest sports infrastructure project since the completion of Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, in 1987 — 38 years ago,” PS Omollo stated.
