KeNHA Enforces Eviction of Traders from Thika Superhighway Road Reserves

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has commenced the eviction of traders operating within road reserves along the Thika Superhighway, following the expiration of prior notices. This action aims to clear space for infrastructure improvements, including the construction of designated bus bays, and to enhance road safety.

On February 9, 2026, KeNHA issued a seven-day notice to traders at Roysambu and Githurai, instructing them to vacate the road reserves to facilitate the construction of bus bays intended to improve traffic flow and passenger safety. Despite the notice, some traders continued their operations within the restricted zones.

In a statement, KeNHA emphasized the necessity of this enforcement: "This action follows the lapse of the notice issued on 23rd February 2026, which directed the affected traders to vacate the encroached sections within a specified period. The traders are required to clear the areas to allow for the restoration and protection of the road reserve. However, some still remain within the restricted zones even after the deadline expired. The exercise forms part of the Authority’s ongoing road safety and corridor management initiatives aimed at reducing accidents along the busy highway corridor."

The authority has warned that it will proceed with the clearance and removal of illegal structures within the road reserve if traders fail to comply with the directive. KeNHA's mandate includes managing, developing, rehabilitating, and maintaining national highways across the country.

The Thika Superhighway is a critical transport corridor linking Nairobi to central and eastern regions. The presence of unauthorized trading activities along the highway has been identified as a contributing factor to traffic congestion and safety hazards. KeNHA's current enforcement actions are part of broader efforts to streamline transport operations and reduce accidents along this busy corridor.