The upcoming Nairobi City Marathon is set to transform the cityscape this weekend, causing extensive road closures that will impact daily commutes for thousands. From Saturday evening, July 5, to Sunday afternoon, July 6, key arteries including sections of the Nairobi Expressway, Mombasa Road, and multiple routes within the Central Business District will be inaccessible. While this presents temporary mobility challenges, the fourth edition of the marathon, attracting participants from 75 countries, underscores Nairobi’s growing status as a global sporting hub, fostering community spirit and promoting a healthy lifestyle within a rapidly developing urban environment.
Motorists are advised to plan diligently, as the Nairobi Expressway will undergo a significant 17-hour closure from James Gichuru Road to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), spanning from 10 p.m. on Saturday until 3 p.m. on Sunday. This primary artery, crucial for efficient urban transit, will be entirely dedicated to the marathon’s course. Complementing this, two lanes on both sides between James Gichuru Road and the Expressway entrance will be closed from midnight to 2 p.m. on Sunday, with intersections linking the expressway and bypasses expected to experience significant disruptions. Such events, while challenging for immediate traffic flow, contribute to the broader vision of a sustainable city by temporarily reducing vehicular emissions and promoting alternative modes of transport like walking and cycling for spectators and local residents.
Further affecting urban mobility, Waiyaki Way will see inner lanes between Musa Gitau Road and the Expressway entrance closed from midnight to 10 a.m. on Sunday. Aerodrome Road, situated in the Upper Hill vicinity, will experience an extended closure, from 10 p.m. on Friday, July 4, until 6 p.m. on Sunday. Critical access points along Mombasa Road and the Southern Bypass, including roundabouts, exits, and entry points, will also be inaccessible from midnight on Saturday to 11 a.m. on Sunday. This comprehensive closure plan, while disruptive, highlights the city’s commitment to hosting international events, showcasing its infrastructure, and encouraging participation in large-scale public activities that promote well-being across all demographics.
The heart of Nairobi’s Central Business District will also be significantly impacted, with numerous streets completely shut down from midnight on Saturday until 2 p.m. on Sunday. Affected routes include Harry Thuku Road, University Way (from Uhuru Highway Roundabout to the slip road), Koinange Street (between University Way and Kenyatta Avenue), and Kenyatta Avenue itself (from Koinange Street to Moi Avenue). Additionally, Kimathi Street, Simba Street, Mama Ngina Street, City Hall Way, Taifa Road, Harambee Avenue, and Parliament Road will be inaccessible. These temporary closures encourage pedestrianisation and redefine urban spaces for community engagement, offering a glimpse into how city centres can be transformed to prioritise human-centric activities, aligning with the goal of creating more equitable and walkable cities.
The Nairobi City Marathon’s global appeal is evident in its diverse participant base, drawing runners from 75 countries. China leads the foreign contingent with 375 runners, followed by India with 103 participants. Other notable international entries include 46 runners from Uganda, 41 from Ethiopia, 40 from Japan, and significant representation from Britain. This international participation not only boosts the city’s tourism and hospitality sectors but also fosters cultural exchange and showcases Nairobi’s openness to the world. The event’s financial incentives, including the highest prize money for a marathon in Africa (KSh 3.5 million for full marathon winners), attract elite athletes, further enhancing its international standing and inspiring aspiring runners from all backgrounds.
With races including the 42km, 21km, 10km, and a 4km fun run, all commencing from Uhuru Park due to ongoing renovations at Nyayo Stadium, the marathon offers opportunities for participants of varying fitness levels and ages. This inclusivity aligns with the vision of gender-neutral cities that promote physical activity and well-being for all. While short-term traffic diversions present logistical challenges for residents, the long-term benefits of such a large-scale, international sporting event—ranging from economic stimulus and global recognition to the promotion of public health and community cohesion—reinforce Nairobi’s commitment to evolving into a truly sustainable and vibrant urban hub.
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