Gen Z anniversary protests gained momentum across several parts of the country on Wednesday, disrupting transport and business activities. Police mounted roadblocks on major routes while many businesses remained closed amid fears of demonstrations.
Mlolongo Roadblock Causes Major Traffic Jam
Motorists using the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway faced heavy delays after police set up a roadblock at Mlolongo. The checkpoint triggered a traffic jam stretching several kilometres.
Long-distance drivers reported spending more than four hours on the road. Some truck drivers said they arrived at the checkpoint as early as 4am and remained stranded for hours.
Private motorists also faced delays at the roadblock. Several drivers said officers turned them back after long waits.
Some transporters questioned the criteria police used to allow vehicles through. Others expressed frustration over the uncertainty and slow movement along the highway.
Passengers Dropped Off Along Waiyaki Way
Police also mounted a roadblock at Stage 87 in Uthiru along Waiyaki Way. The move affected passengers travelling to Nairobi from western Kenya and other regions.
Officers ordered passengers to leave up-country buses before reaching the city centre. Travellers from towns including Kisumu and Malaba scrambled to find alternative transport into Nairobi.
The situation created confusion among passengers. The disruption came as authorities restricted public service vehicles from accessing the Central Business District.
Businesses Close in Kisii
Kisii town recorded a strong police presence at several strategic locations. Security officers patrolled major streets as authorities monitored the situation.
Most businesses remained closed throughout the morning. Many residents stayed away from the town centre as uncertainty over possible demonstrations persisted.
Nakuru CBD Remains Quiet
Sections of Kenyatta Avenue in Nakuru remained unusually quiet. Several traders delayed opening their shops while others kept their premises closed.
Residents largely avoided the Central Business District. The low turnout reflected growing caution ahead of the planned protests.
Kakamega Records Low Activity
Kakamega town also experienced reduced activity. Streets within the Central Business District remained largely empty during the morning hours.
Most businesses stayed closed as residents chose to remain away from the town centre. The atmosphere reflected concerns over potential demonstrations and disruptions.
Areas Motorists May Consider Avoiding
Motorists and travellers may experience disruptions around Mlolongo on the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway. Delays have also emerged around Uthiru's Stage 87 along Waiyaki Way.
Sections of Nairobi CBD continue to face restrictions. Residents and travellers should also expect disruptions in parts of Kisii, Nakuru and Kakamega as demonstrations gather momentum across the country.
