Nairobi: Frustrated soccer fans were caught up in hours of a traffic jam on Thika road highway from Ruiru, on their way to the CHAN semifinal match between Kenya and Madagascar, pushing through security personnel.
The match will kickoff at 1700 hours today at the Moi International Sports Complex, Kasarani Stadium. Reports say that traffic came to a stand still as early as 12:00 noon as fans were heading to the stadium to watch the match, some arriving before gates were open.
Kiambu Road and eastern bypasses were most affected by traffic diverting away from the highway.
The National Police Service of Kenya issued a statement saying the decision to close the road was for public safety and security purposes.
“Authorities have implemented a comprehensive plan to monitor and manage access to the area, prioritising the safety of all attendees, players and officials,” the statement said, advising motorists to seek alternative routes to their destinations.
Traffic control systems seemed to have frustrated a lot of people.
“Thousands of Kenyans have lost jobs today because gavment woke up and decided to close Thika road. And you’ll hear someone saying Kasongo cares about our economy,” Jim Njue posted on the X platform.
“This government has no person with wisdom in the interior ministry..How do you close Thika rd,at 6AM..a working day, when Harambee stars will be playing at 5pm?,” Rag G posted.
“National Police Service Kenya have closed Thika road at the Eastern Bypass. Messy traffic. Poor planning. Same as Githurai, Duke of Gatanga said.
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