Police mounted security checkpoints along major roads leading into Nairobi on Tuesday morning as authorities intensified security ahead of the planned Saba Saba protests.
Motorists and commuters using several highways including Thika Superhighway, Mombasa Road and Waiyaki Way experienced significant delays after officers established roadblocks and conducted vehicle inspections at various entry points into the city.
Additional security operations were also reported along Kiambu Road, Lang’ata Road, Ngong Road, Jogoo Road and Juja Road, with some motorists being diverted to alternative routes as police sought to regulate movement into the Central Business District.
The heightened deployment follows an earlier announcement by the National Police Service (NPS), which said enhanced checkpoints had been introduced to maintain public order and safeguard lives and property during the annual Saba Saba commemorations. The service urged members of the public to cooperate with officers and comply with lawful security directives.
Traffic disruptions were reported from the early hours of the morning, with heavy congestion building up along sections of Thika Road, Mombasa Road near Cabanas and Waiyaki Way.
In some areas, public service vehicles were unable to access the Nairobi CBD, forcing many commuters to walk or seek alternative transport. Several schools also experienced disruptions as uncertainty and transport challenges affected the movement of learners and staff.
By mid-morning, police maintained a heavy presence around key government installations, including Parliament Buildings, while anti-riot officers patrolled strategic locations across the city.
Reports also indicated isolated incidents of tear gas being used to disperse crowds in some parts of Nairobi as authorities sought to prevent unauthorized gatherings.
Saba Saba, observed every July 7, commemorates the 1990 pro-democracy movement that pushed for the reintroduction of multiparty democracy in Kenya.
In recent years, the anniversary has evolved into a platform for demonstrations on governance, accountability and social justice, often prompting heightened security measures across the country.
