The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) carried out an overnight demolition exercise on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, targeting informal structures on the road reserve along the Thika Superhighway.
The operation primarily affected traders in the Githurai 45 and Roysambu areas, leaving many counting significant losses as their kiosks and merchandise were flattened.
The clearance is intended to pave the way for the construction of designated bus bays. KeNHA stated these facilities will improve road safety and reduce traffic congestion by providing orderly pick-up and drop-off points for public service vehicles.
The demolitions focused on the Nairobi-bound side in Githurai and both directions in Roysambu.KeNHA issued a seven-day notice on 9 February 2026, directing traders to vacate the road reserve.
However, many traders claimed they were caught unaware by the timing of the enforcement or lacked a relocation plan.The exercise sparked protests in Githurai, where angry traders blocked sections of the highway and lit bonfires, causing temporary traffic paralysis.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua criticized the government for what he termed “excessive” force, questioning the necessity of a night operation that displaced thousands of small-scale traders during a difficult economic period.
Local leaders and traders have expressed concerns over the lack of consultation and the potential loss of livelihoods for approximately 1,600 affected businesses.
By Anthony Solly
