Security Tightened Across Nairobi as Police Block Roads During Saba Saba Commemoration
A heavy security presence dominated Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) during the Saba Saba Day commemoration, as police mounted one of the largest security operations in recent months amid fears of possible violent protests. Hundreds of officers drawn from various units were deployed across the capital, turning key parts of the city into a tightly controlled security zone.
From as early as 7 a.m., convoys of police vehicles, including Land Cruisers, Subaru patrol cars, and mounted police units on horseback, patrolled major streets and public spaces. Uniformed and plainclothes officers maintained a visible presence throughout the city, monitoring movement and responding to any signs of unrest. Security agencies said the deployment was aimed at maintaining law and order and preventing any disruption during the annual commemoration.
Access to sensitive government installations, including Parliament Buildings, was heavily restricted. Roads leading to the National Assembly and Senate were barricaded with razor wire, while heavily armed officers guarded the entrances to prevent protesters from accessing the precincts. The move effectively blocked demonstrators who had planned to march to Parliament to present a petition on governance and human rights concerns.
Major highways leading into Nairobi also experienced heightened security, with multiple roadblocks mounted by police officers conducting vehicle inspections. Along Thika Superhighway, motorists encountered several checkpoints between Allsops and Thika Town, resulting in lengthy delays for commuters travelling to the capital. Similar roadblocks were established along Mombasa Road near Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Nyayo National Stadium, as well as on Waiyaki Way, where vehicles entering the city were subjected to security checks.
The heightened security disrupted normal business for many commuters, traders, and public transport operators. Some motorists were forced to seek alternative routes after roads were partially blocked, while passengers travelling from counties such as Embu reported significant delays due to repeated police inspections. Public service vehicle operators also complained that the numerous roadblocks slowed transport services and affected their daily earnings.
Despite the extensive security operation, several parts of Nairobi remained relatively calm. Areas that had previously witnessed violent anti-government demonstrations, including Githurai 45, Ongata Rongai, and Kitengela, experienced normal business activities under close police surveillance. Traders opened their businesses, residents moved freely, and officers maintained a watchful presence without major confrontations being reported.
Some Nairobi residents questioned whether the heavy police deployment was necessary, arguing that the extensive roadblocks and restrictions caused more inconvenience than the anticipated demonstrations. Others, however, viewed the operation as a precautionary measure intended to prevent a repeat of previous protests that had turned violent.
The Saba Saba Day commemoration, observed every July 7, marks Kenya’s historic struggle for multi-party democracy. In recent years, the anniversary has evolved into a platform for activists, civil society organizations, and citizens to demand accountability, governance reforms, and respect for constitutional rights. This year’s event unfolded under heightened security, reflecting authorities’ determination to prevent unrest while balancing the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
