Traffic Disruptions Continue on Bomas-Kiserian Road

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has extended the temporary closure of a section of the Bomas-Kiserian (B19) Road, impacting commuters for an additional period. The affected stretch, located between Brookhouse/Galleria (Km 0+500) and the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) junction (Km 1+000), will remain inaccessible to motorists until Monday, December 1, 2025.

This extension, announced by KeNHA in a public notice on Thursday, October 17, 2025, is necessary to allow for the construction of two box culverts. The initial closure, which began on Thursday, August 28, 2025, was originally slated to conclude on Monday, October 20, 2025. However, delays in completing the culvert construction prompted the 42-day extension.

Context and Rationale for the Closure

The ongoing roadworks are part of a broader initiative by KeNHA to improve drainage systems and enhance road safety along the rapidly developing Lang'ata–Kiserian corridor. This area has historically experienced persistent flooding and traffic bottlenecks, particularly during rainy seasons. The construction of the box culverts is specifically designed to improve water flow and mitigate these flooding incidents.

Luka Kimeli, KeNHA's Acting Director-General, emphasized that the temporary disruption is crucial for ensuring long-term safety and efficiency on the road. KeNHA has appealed for understanding from the public, noting that the upgrade will ultimately contribute to improved mobility and overall road infrastructure in the region.

Alternative Routes and Traffic Management

To minimise inconvenience for motorists, KeNHA has provided several alternative routes. Those travelling along Lang'ata Road can divert through Lang'ata South Road, Kiboko Road, Banda Lane, and then onto Magadi Road. Another option involves using Lang'ata South Road, Kiboko Road, Mukoma Road, and rejoining Magadi Road near the Shell Petrol Station.

Traffic police officers and marshals have been deployed to guide motorists and ensure a smooth flow of traffic along these diversion routes. KeNHA advises all road users to adhere to the traffic diversion plans, observe road signage, and cooperate with the personnel on-site.

Evidence/Data Box

• Affected Road Section: Bomas-Kiserian (B19) Road, between Brookhouse/Galleria (Km 0+500) and Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) junction (Km 1+000).
• Original Closure Period: Thursday, August 28, 2025, to Monday, October 20, 2025.
• Extended Closure Period: Monday, October 20, 2025, to Monday, December 1, 2025.
• Reason for Closure: Construction of two box culverts to improve drainage and road safety.
• Source: Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) public notices, August 22, 2025, and October 17, 2025.

Unanswered Questions and Next Steps

While KeNHA has outlined the reasons for the extension and provided alternative routes, the specific factors contributing to the initial delays in culvert construction have not been detailed. Motorists will be keen to see if the new December 1 deadline will be met without further extensions.

What to Watch

Commuters should monitor official KeNHA channels for any further updates regarding the Bomas-Kiserian Road closure. The effectiveness of the alternative routes and the management of traffic flow during peak hours will be a key area to observe as the construction progresses towards the December 1 deadline.