Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) came to a near standstill Monday morning as anti-riot police rolled out extensive roadblocks on major entry routes ahead of the Saba Saba demonstrations.
Despite earlier government reassurances that July 7 would proceed as a normal working day, the capital witnessed a tight security clampdown, with security forces restricting access into the city centre for both private and public vehicles. Officers cited concerns that protesters might disguise themselves to infiltrate the CBD and spark unrest.
Key arteries such as Waiyaki Way, Kenyatta Avenue, Thika Road, Jogoo Road, Mombasa Road, Kiambu Road, Uhuru Highway, and Valley Road were all affected, leading to massive traffic congestion and gridlock across the city’s outskirts. Only emergency services and government vehicles were permitted to pass through the heavily manned checkpoints.
The measures left thousands of Nairobians stranded or forced to walk long distances into the city, with pedestrians allowed through only after screening. Many reported hours-long commutes on foot just to reach their workplaces, as matatus and other vehicles were blocked from entering the CBD.
While the government had downplayed fears of disruption, Monday’s heavy police presence and restricted movement painted a different picture one of a city on edge as tensions surrounding the protests continued to simmer.
