KeNHA clears Roysambu road reserve in overnight demolition exercise

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), supported by a heavy contingent of security officers, conducted an overnight demolition of structures along the Kamiti Road exit and the Roysambu roundabout on Wednesday night.

Bulldozers moved into the area at approximately 1:00 a.m. on March 5, targeting kiosks and business stalls that had encroached onto the designated road reserve. The operation left a trail of debris, including twisted metal and wooden planks, as traders arrived on Thursday morning to find their places of work flattened.

The exercise focused on the stretch near the Shell petrol station and the Kenya Power perimeter wall. These areas have long been occupied by informal traders selling clothing, foodstuffs, and various household wares right at the edge of the busy Thika Superhighway corridor.

KeNHA defended the move, stating that the structures posed a significant safety risk to both motorists and pedestrians. The authority noted that the encroachment has contributed to numerous road accidents over time in what is one of the most congested transit points in Nairobi.

According to official statements, the clearance is a prerequisite for the construction of modern bus bays. These facilities are designed to provide designated points for public service vehicles to pick up and drop off passengers, which is expected to ease the chronic traffic snarl-ups at the Roysambu intersection.

The agency confirmed that the demolitions followed the expiration of a seven-day vacation notice issued on February 9, 2026. While some traders claimed the action was sudden, the authority maintained that adequate time had been provided for voluntary relocation from the public land.

This enforcement action in Roysambu follows a similar operation carried out in the Githurai area last month. In both instances, the government has prioritized the restoration of the road corridor to facilitate infrastructure upgrades and improve the overall functionality of the highway.

The primary objectives of the ongoing clearance project include:

* Restoration of the road reserve integrity to prevent illegal commercial activities.

* Provision of adequate space for the construction of modern transport facilities.

* Reduction of pedestrian-vehicle conflicts by removing obstructions from walkways.

* Enhancement of sightlines for motorists entering and exiting the superhighway.

Despite the stated infrastructure benefits, the exercise has drawn sharp criticism from local leadership and affected business owners. Many traders expressed frustration over the lack of alternative trading sites, arguing that the loss of their stalls has crippled their primary source of income.

Security remained tight throughout the morning as some residents attempted to salvage building materials from the wreckage. KeNHA officials indicated that the site will be secured to prevent any immediate re-occupation, allowing contractors to move in for the planned civil works.