The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced an extension of the temporary closure of a section of the Bomas-Kiserian (B19) road, impacting traffic flow for an additional six weeks. The affected stretch, located between Galleria/Brookhouse and the junction near the Catholic University of Eastern Africa, will now remain closed from Monday, October 20, 2025, until Monday, December 1, 2025.

This extended closure is necessary to allow for the ongoing construction of two new box culverts along the road. KeNHA had initially announced a two-month closure of this section from Thursday, August 28, 2025, to Monday, October 20, 2025, for the same construction works.

Historical and Political Context

The Bomas-Kiserian road is a vital artery connecting Nairobi's southern suburbs, and its improvement is part of broader government efforts to enhance national road infrastructure. KeNHA, established under the Kenya Roads Act, 2007, is mandated with the development, rehabilitation, management, and maintenance of national trunk roads. Infrastructure development remains a key pillar of Kenya's economic growth strategy, aiming to improve connectivity, reduce travel times, and boost trade.

Laws/Policy and Governance

Road closures for construction are standard practice under the Kenya Roads Act, 2007, which empowers KeNHA to manage and maintain national roads. Public notices, such as the one issued by KeNHA, are a legal requirement to inform motorists and ensure public safety during such works. The authority's acting Director General, Eng. Luka Kimeli, has urged motorists to adhere to the traffic diversion plans and cooperate with traffic marshals and police officers on site to ensure smooth traffic flow.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

Motorists using the Bomas-Kiserian road are the primary stakeholders affected by this closure. While the construction aims for long-term benefits, the immediate impact includes increased travel times and potential congestion on alternative routes. KeNHA has provided specific alternative routes to mitigate these inconveniences.

Evidence/Data

The construction involves the installation of two box culverts, critical for drainage and road stability. Eng. Luka Kimeli was appointed as the Acting Director General of KeNHA on Friday, July 11, 2025, following the resignation of Eng. Kungu Ndungu.

Risks/Implications

The extended closure poses a risk of prolonged traffic congestion on the designated alternative routes, potentially increasing commute times for residents and businesses in the affected areas. Delays in project completion could further exacerbate these issues. However, the successful completion of the culverts is expected to enhance road safety and durability in the long term.

Timeline and Next Steps

The road section will be closed from Monday, October 20, 2025, to Monday, December 1, 2025. Motorists are advised to use the following alternative routes:

• Lang'ata Road, Lang'ata South Road, Kiboko Road, Banda Lane, and Magadi Road.
• Lang'ata Road, Lang'ata South Road, Kiboko Road, Mukoma Road, and Magadi Road (near Shell petrol station).

KeNHA has appealed to road users to strictly follow the diversion plans and instructions from traffic management personnel.

What to Watch

The public will be keenly watching the progress of the construction to ensure the road reopens as scheduled on Monday, December 1, 2025. Any further extensions or significant delays would likely draw public concern. KeNHA's communication regarding project milestones and potential adjustments to the timeline will be crucial.