Standard Chartered's Joyce Kibe, StanChart Marathon LOC chairman David Mwindi and Nairobi County Traffic Police Commander, Joseph Chirchir/ HANDOUTThe Nairobi Traffic Police Department has announced partial road closures and traffic diversions on Sunday as the capital hosts the 22nd edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.
The closures will begin on Saturday at midnight and remain in place until 1.30 pm on Sunday.
Nairobi Traffic Commandant Joseph Chirchir said adequate measures have been put in place to manage traffic and minimise disruption.
“We have worked closely with the marathon organisers to ensure minimal inconvenience for motorists and residents. The alternative routes have been carefully selected to maintain steady movement while enabling thousands of runners to enjoy a safe and memorable race experience,” he said.
Drivers from Kikuyu will access Dagoretti through the Southern Bypass, while those from Karen will connect to Kikuyu via Dagoretti Road.
Motorists from Galleria Mall heading towards Mombasa Road will use Uhuru Highway through Lang’ata Road, while those from the Inland Container Depot will connect via Mombasa Road or Waiyaki Way.
With the closures running until early afternoon, motorists from Kikuyu heading to Mombasa Road are advised to use Waiyaki Way, Ngong Road or Mbagathi Way.
Travellers from Lenana to Kikuyu should use Waiyaki Way through Naivasha or James Gichuru roads, while heavy vehicles heading to Mombasa Road are advised to take Waiyaki Way as an alternative.
The marathon will start and finish at Uhuru Gardens along Lang’ata Road for the first time, where more than 30,000 runners are expected.
Local Organising Committee chairperson David Mwindi said: “From expanded finish areas and improved hydration points to better flow management and staffing, every improvement is designed to make the event safer and more enjoyable.”
The marathon will feature seven categories: 42km, 21km, 10km, 21km wheelchair, 5km run, CEO challenge and corporate challenge.
The organisers have introduced an exclusive finish-line channel for elite 42km runners and separate finish zones for the 21km and 10km races to ease congestion.
The walk-off zone has been expanded by 30 per cent to improve flow and safety, while medal and hydration teams have been reinforced with additional personnel.
A new photo-finish area will allow runners to capture high-quality memories without obstructing movement.
