KeNHA gives Kamulu-Kangundo traders 30-day notice

KeNHA/FILE

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a 30-day notice to traders and other occupants operating within the road reserve along the Kamulu–Joska–Malaa–Tala–Kangundo (B63) Road

In a public notice dated May 29, the authority directed them to remove their goods and structures ahead of planned road improvement works.

It warned that all illegal roadside occupants, including traders and owners of unauthorised structures, must vacate the affected road reserve within 30 days from the date of the notice.

"Upon the expiry of the 30 days - Monday, June 29, 2026 - any structures, goods, or encroachments remaining within the said section of the road reserve shall be removed without further reference to the owners," the notice said.

KeNHA said the directive is intended to pave the way for the implementation of several infrastructure projects along the busy corridor.

This includes the construction of service roads, bus bays, and drainage systems.

According to the authority, the works form part of an ongoing performance-based maintenance and safety enhancement programme along the B63 Road.

“The project forms part of the ongoing performance-based maintenance and safety enhancement of this road, aimed at improving safety, visibility and decongestion to improve traffic flow,” the notice states.

The authority reminded the public that occupying road reserves without authorisation is an offence under the Kenya Roads Act, 2007, and the Traffic Act, Cap 403.

As a result, all affected traders and occupants have been directed to remove their wares, temporary structures, and any other encroachments from the road reserve before the expiry of the notice period.

KeNHA further warned that owners of structures removed during the enforcement exercise could be required to bear the cost of the operations.

The Kamulu–Kangundo corridor has, in recent years, experienced rapid population growth and increased commercial activity, leading to a proliferation of roadside businesses and structures along sections of the road reserve.

The planned improvements are expected to enhance traffic movement on the corridor, which serves thousands of commuters travelling between Nairobi and parts of Machakos County on a daily basis.

Road reserves are legally protected areas set aside for the development, maintenance and operation of road infrastructure.

Encroachment on these spaces is often cited as a major challenge to road expansion projects and can pose safety risks to both motorists and pedestrians.

The authority has previously carried out similar eviction and clearance operations in various parts of the country, saying the measures are necessary to safeguard road infrastructure and facilitate expansion and safety enhancement works