List of Nairobi roads where police have mounted checkpoints as Kenya marks Saba Saba

A police checkpoint./FILE

Police have mounted roadblocks and security checkpoints on major roads leading into and within Nairobi's Central Business District as the country marks the annual Saba Saba anniversary amid heightened security.

Police checkpoint along a section of Waiyaki Way on July 7, 2026./PURITY MWANGI

The checkpoints were set up early Tuesday along key routes, including Kiambu Road around AAR Hospital, Thika Road along the Kenyatta Road Junction and Roysambu area, Waiyaki Way, Juja Road, Jogoo Rd around City Stadium and roads leading to State House and Parliament, with officers screening vehicles and monitoring movement.

The heightened security deployment comes amid speculation over possible demonstrations to mark Saba Saba, a day historically associated with pro-democracy protests in Kenya.

Police security vehicle at State House Road./Cyrus Ombati.

However, National Police Service spokesperson Michael Muchiri said the police had not received any official notification of planned demonstrations.

Speaking to Citizen TV on Monday, Muchiri said the service was only aware of rumours circulating about possible protests and stressed that police operations would be guided by the law.

"We are not aware of a protest. There have been rumours, talk about rumours, but we have to stick with the law," Muchiri said.

The police deployment follows an earlier announcement by the National Police Service that security would be enhanced across Nairobi to maintain law and order during the Saba Saba commemorations.

Motorists entering the city were subjected to security screening at various checkpoints, with police maintaining a visible presence at strategic locations as part of the security operation.

Saba Saba, observed every July 7, commemorates the 1990 pro-democracy movement that called for the reintroduction of multi-party democracy in Kenya. Over the years, the anniversary has evolved into a platform for demonstrations on governance, accountability and other national issues.