Nairobi Regional Commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo has announced an elaborate security and traffic management plan during today's Jamhuri Day celebrations.
This, while urging residents to cooperate fully to ensure a smooth, safe and colourful national event.
In a detailed press briefing on Thursday, Kitiyo said multi-agency teams were deployed across the capital from Thursday evening through the end of the festivities to guarantee order and public safety.
“For us to have smooth traffic flow and peaceful celebrations tomorrow, the following arrangements have been made to ensure security and safety for all,” he said on Thursday.
Security cordons have been established within the venue, in the Central Business District and across estates, with both uniformed and plainclothes officers strategically positioned.
Specialised units will also be on standby to respond to any emergencies.
Proper protocol arrangements have been put in place to receive distinguished guests, dignitaries and wananchi expected at Nyayo National Stadium, the venue of this year’s celebrations.
Traffic rerouting
Several key routes will experience temporary changes.
Vehicles from Lang’ata Road will be diverted at the Madaraka roundabout toward Lusaka Road.
Aerodrome–Wakiihuri Road will remain closed from 7 am to 3 pm.
Motorists using the Expressway from Westlands will exit at Bunyala Road from 7 am, while those coming from Mlolongo will exit at Capital Centre.
No vehicles will be allowed on the section of the Expressway adjacent to Nyayo Stadium during this period.
Traffic on all other routes will flow normally, but motorists have been urged to strictly follow instructions from traffic officers.
Guidance for attendees
Members of the public attending the event were advised to take personal security precautions.
"Individuals should not use expensive phones or expose jewellery and other valuables in crowded areas,” the Regional Commissioner cautioned.
Attendees may carry water, snacks and refreshments, but alcoholic drinks will not be permitted inside the venue.
National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs), police, National Youth Service officers and other agencies will be on the ground to guide the public on seating arrangements at the pavilion and terraces. All guests are expected to be seated by 7 am.
Parking and protocol
Adequate parking has been set aside for VIPs inside the stadium, while other motorists will be directed to designated spaces around the stadium and the closed Lang’ata–Mombasa Road loop.
Drivers have been asked to follow directions from traffic marshals for seamless movement.
The Regional Commissioner also revealed that several international guests, including Heads of State and government representatives, are expected.
He encouraged Kenyans to showcase their patriotism through their attire.
"We request that our dress code be inspired by our national colours, because our national colours are the colours of our flag,” he said.
The government expects thousands of Kenyans to throng the stadium for the annual celebrations marking the country’s independence.
The climax of the celebrations will be addressed by President William Ruto.
