Police close key Nairobi roads as CHAN group A stage reaches climax.

Mombasa Road/Langata Road roundabout after section of the road was closed at Nyayo National Stadium. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

Nairobi is facing heavy traffic disruptions as police order major road closures and diversions to accommodate two African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group A matches.

The National Police Service (NPS) announced that Aerodrome Road from Madaraka Roundabout to Bunyala Roundabout, one lane of Lang’ata Road from Madaraka to Lusaka Roundabout and one lane of Mombasa Road between Lusaka and Bunyala Roundabouts will be closed.

“Motorists are advised to use alternative routes such as Likoni Road through Enterprise Road or the Southern Bypass when approaching the central business district (CBD) from Mombasa Road,” noted the NPS in a statement.

Diversions will also affect Lang’ata Road where vehicles heading to the city centre will be redirected to Raila Odinga Road or Muhoho Road via Mbagathi Roundabout. For fans travelling to Moi International Sports Centre (MISC), Kasarani, vehicles without access passes will be directed to use service lanes at Exit 7 and Exit 8 on Thika Superhighway.

Police confirmed that security checkpoints will be mounted along major roads including Muthaiga and Ruiru interchanges to manage traffic flow. “We urge all motorists to cooperate with officers on-site to ensure smooth movement. Additional police officers have been deployed to assist and stern action will be taken against anyone violating traffic rules,” explained the NPS.

Harambee Stars are set to meet Zambia at MISC, Kasarani from 3 p.m. in their Group A finale. A win would secure Kenya top spot in Group A after already booking a quarter-final place.

At Nyayo National Stadium, Morocco will face the  Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in their final Group A fixture. Both sides are level on six points, but a draw may be enough for Morocco while DRC must win to confirm progress to the quarter-finals.

“It’s a big day for football but also a nightmare for us who have to drive through town. I just hope the diversions will ease the pressure,” observed Peter Otieno, a motorist on Mombasa Road.