29-Sep.

Motorists in Nairobi are set for a frustrating Sunday as ten major roads will be closed for the Grand Nairobi Bike Race (GNBR) on September 29.

Authorities anticipate a disruption of traffic as 2,500 cyclists from over 21 countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, and the USA, are expected to participate in the annual event.

The race, set to begin and end at Nyayo Stadium, will see major arteries like Lang’ata Road, Uhuru Highway, and Haile Sellasie Avenue completely shut down. 

The closures are scheduled to begin early in the morning and will last until 2pm, with no alternative routes offered for the affected areas.

Key road networks such as the Southern Bypass and Madaraka Roundabout, along with smaller connecting routes like Masaba Road and Bunyala Road, will also be inaccessible, leaving drivers with limited options.

Motorists are being urged by race organizers and the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) to plan ahead, though the scope of the closures will likely leave most scrambling for detours.

With over 2,500 cyclists expected for the third edition of the race, the GNBR has grown into a massive sporting spectacle that attracts professional riders and enthusiasts alike. 

The race will feature six categories, including a 60 km main race, a 48 km para-cycling race, and a family-friendly 12 km ride.

This year’s event promises even stiffer competition, with participants from Uganda, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and other regions set to take part.

Last year’s edition saw Uganda dominate, with Paul Lumuria taking first place in the main race, while Olympian Charles Kagimu clinched third.

This year, Uganda is expected to send at least 100 cyclists, with high hopes of replicating their previous success.

The traffic disruptions come on the heels of another major road closure just weeks ago, when the Nairobi Expressway was blocked for the Nairobi City Marathon.

The temporary closure left motorists battling long queues, and many fear this Sunday will bring a similar scenario.

Cycling enthusiasts and race organisers are eager for the event, celebrating it as an opportunity to showcase the region’s growing talent and foster a sense of community around sports. 

The Grand Nairobi Bike Race, sponsored by Jubilee Live Free, has become one of the largest cycling competitions in East Africa, drawing interest from both local and international cyclists.