The traffic congestion along the Nairobi-Nakuru highway. Photo/NTSA
Na Newsflash Writer
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a traffic advisory outlining alternative routes for motorists using the busy Nairobi–Nakuru highway, as congestion continues to build up along the corridor during the festive travel period.
In the advisory dated December 22, 2025, KeNHA said traffic volumes have significantly increased along the Rironi–Naivasha–Nakuru–Mau Summit (A8) road as well as the Rironi–Mai Mahiu–Naivasha (A8 South) route. The authority attributed the congestion to heightened end-year travel as thousands of motorists head to various destinations for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
KeNHA urged drivers to exercise patience and caution while navigating the affected sections, warning that failure to observe lane discipline could worsen congestion and increase the risk of accidents along the highway.
Surge in festive traffic
According to KeNHA, the spike in traffic has put pressure on major sections of the Nairobi–Nakuru highway, particularly at known bottlenecks. The authority said it has deployed traffic management measures in collaboration with the National Police Service to ensure smooth flow and enhance road safety.
Motorists were advised to strictly follow traffic rules, observe lane discipline and cooperate with traffic officers on duty to ease movement and reduce delays.
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KeNHA emphasized that responsible conduct by road users remains critical in ensuring safe and timely journeys during the peak travel season.
The authority noted that despite ongoing traffic management efforts, congestion may persist at certain points due to the sheer volume of vehicles using the corridor.
Alternative routes announced
To mitigate traffic snarl-ups, KeNHA unveiled several alternative routes that motorists can use if congestion becomes severe. These include the Thika–Magumu–Njabini–Ol Kalou–Dundori–Lanet–Nakuru route, the Flyover–Njabini–Ol Kalou–Dundori–Lanet–Nakuru route, and the Naivasha–Njabini–Ol Kalou–Dundori–Lanet–Nakuru route.
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Other recommended alternatives are Gilgil–Ol Kalou–Dundori–Lanet–Nakuru, Ngong–Suswa–Narok–Mau Narok–Nakuru, Nakuru–Kampi ya Moto–Eldama Ravine–Makutano, and Nakuru–Njoro–Mau Summit.
KeNHA encouraged motorists to plan their journeys in advance and use the alternative routes where possible to avoid prolonged delays. The authority reiterated its commitment to road safety, wishing all motorists safe travel and a happy festive season as traffic remains heavy across major highways.

