Minimal activity in Nairobi as businesses, schools closed ahead of Obama arrival

US and Kenyan flags hoisted at JKIA ahead of Obama arrival for Global Entrepreneurship Summit. (Photo: Jenipher Wachie/Standard)

Most Nairobi streets were deserted Friday morning ahead of the arrival of President Barack Obama.

Some companies, schools and government offices reported low turnout while most businesses remained closed. There were few vehicles and pedestrians on the streets.

Officials said most residents feared being locked in or out of the city in the course of the day when roads close ahead of the arrival of the US president Friday evening.

Meanwhile, exhibitions went on at the KICC where the pre-GES meeting was taking place.

The government said it would not declare Friday a public holiday but most schools, companies and banks advised workers not to come to work.

Police had warned most streets would be closed as the guests for the Sixth Global Entrepreneurial Summit arrive.

According to Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet, on Friday, no access from Waiyaki way to Chiromo past Westlands roundabout from noon to 2pm.

From 3pm to 10pm between Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Mombasa Road, Uhuru Highway, Chiromo Road and Westlands Roundabout will be closed as the main guests arrive. No accessibility to unauthorized vehicles.

Vehicles from Westlands to Central Business District are advised to use Ringroad, James Gichuru and Parklands.

Those from CBD to Westlands to use Murang’a Road, Ring Road and James Gichuru.

On Saturday, there will be no access of Westlands from CBD from University Way roundabout. Those headed for Westlands to use Muranga Road and Parklands or Ringroad.

Forest Road and Limuru Road and UN Road to be closed from 7am to 5pm.

Haileselassie Avenue, Tom Mboya, Moi Avenu, Harambee Avenue and Landhies Road will be closed from 11am to 3pm on Saturday and no access to Railways bus stop.

The US President and his team are expected to visit the bomb blast site.

From 3pm to 11 pm no access to Kenyatta Avenue, State House Road and between University Way and Westlands.

Sunday. No access to Thika Road up to Ruiru from 9am to 4pm.

“Motorists / pedestrians advised to obey police directives. In case of changes prompt communication will be provided,” said Boinnet.

President Obama departed Washington for Nairobi Friday morning Kenyan time and is expected Friday night.