Motorists stranded between Kariandusi and Nakuru due to what KeNHA said was overlapping and driver indiscipline. /HANDOUTThe government has said the massive traffic jam witnessed on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway for over 10 hours is steadily clearing.
In a statement, EAC PS Caroline Karugu said the disruption, which occurred overnight, was caused by two separate accidents at Soysambu and Mbaruk.
She said the prevailing weather conditions followinh heavy rain further worsened the situation.
Hundrends of motorists spent the night on the road following the traffic snarl-up that started on Friday at 6pm.
The highway, a critical section of the Northern Corridor, usually has high traffic flow considering it's a key regional trade route connecting the Port of Mombasa to Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Karugu said sufficient manpower was deployed to clear the gridlock and prevent a reccurence.
“I have personally
spoken to the Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and we are pleased to
report that traffic is now clearing and the flow of vehicles is steadily
returning to normal,” she said.
"In collaboration with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), and our security agencies, swift action has been taken to manage the situation and minimize disruption," she added.
The PS further assured the public and regional stakeholders of the government's commitment to East African integration.
“As Chair of the East African Community under President William Ruto’s leadership, Kenya is committed to ensuring the seamless movement of goods and people across our borders, in line with our vision of a more integrated and prosperous East African Community,” she stated.
The ministry also reiterated its pledge to remove non-tariff barriers, improve infrastructure and boost intra-regional trade, aligning with the priorities set under President Ruto’s EAC chairmanship.
“Our rapid response today is a testament to our resolve to deliver tangible benefits to all East Africans and to uphold the principles of the EAC Treaty,” Karugu said.
The Ministry expressed gratitude to transporters, traders and the public for their patience and cooperation.
Karugu confirmed that regular updates will be shared via official platforms in coordination with regional agencies.
