The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has ordered the immediate removal of roadside billboards, advertising signage, and unauthorized structures erected along the James Gichuru–JKIA road corridor, citing safety, legality, and protection of road reserves. The directive affects businesses, advertisers, and private developers who have installed structures within the designated road reserve without approval.
The move forms part of a broader government effort to reclaim public road reserves, improve traffic safety, and support ongoing and future road expansion projects within Nairobi and its surrounding transport corridors.
Why KeNHA Issued the Directive
According to KeNHA, many of the billboards and roadside structures along the busy James Gichuru–JKIA route were erected without proper permits or in violation of road reserve regulations. The authority warned that such installations pose significant risks to motorists and pedestrians by obstructing visibility, distracting drivers, and compromising road safety standards.
KeNHA emphasized that road reserves are legally protected public spaces meant to allow for road expansion, drainage, utilities, and emergency access. Any private use of these areas requires formal authorization, which many of the affected structures allegedly lack.
About the James Gichuru–JKIA Road Corridor
The James Gichuru–JKIA corridor is a critical transport link connecting parts of Nairobi’s western suburbs to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The route experiences heavy daily traffic from commuters, airport users, logistics operators, and public transport vehicles.
Due to its strategic importance, the corridor is subject to strict road design and safety standards. KeNHA noted that uncontrolled roadside developments along such routes undermine long-term infrastructure planning and increase the risk of accidents.
Safety and Visibility Concerns
One of the main reasons behind the crackdown is the growing concern over driver distraction. Large billboards, illuminated advertising panels, and improperly positioned signage can divert drivers’ attention, particularly at night or during poor weather conditions.
KeNHA stated that some billboards were installed too close to the carriageway, near junctions, or within sightlines meant for traffic signs and signals. In some cases, structures also interfered with drainage systems, increasing the risk of flooding and road damage.
The authority stressed that road safety takes precedence over commercial interests, especially on high-traffic corridors leading to major national facilities like JKIA.
Notice to Property Owners and Advertisers
KeNHA has issued formal notices to owners of the affected structures, directing them to remove the billboards and installations within a specified timeframe. Failure to comply will result in enforcement action, including forced removal by government teams at the owner’s cost.
The authority advised advertisers and developers to verify land ownership and obtain written approvals before erecting any structures near national highways. KeNHA reiterated that approvals from county governments or private landowners do not override national road reserve regulations.
Legal Basis for the Enforcement
The removal order is anchored in Kenya’s roads and land-use laws, which give KeNHA the mandate to manage, protect, and regulate national highways and their reserves. Under these laws, no permanent or temporary structure may be erected within a road reserve without explicit authorization from the authority.
KeNHA noted that similar enforcement actions have been carried out along other major highways across the country as part of a nationwide campaign to reclaim encroached road reserves.
Impact on Businesses and Advertising Industry
The directive is expected to affect outdoor advertising companies, landlords, and small businesses that rely on roadside visibility. Some advertisers have expressed concern over potential financial losses, particularly where long-term advertising contracts are involved.
However, KeNHA maintains that compliance with the law is non-negotiable and that businesses must operate within approved zones. The authority encouraged advertisers to seek designated advertising spaces that meet safety and planning requirements.
Industry observers note that the enforcement may push the advertising sector toward more regulated and safer placements, reducing visual clutter along major roads.
Urban Planning and Infrastructure Development
The removal of illegal structures aligns with Nairobi’s broader urban planning and infrastructure goals. KeNHA indicated that clearing the James Gichuru–JKIA corridor will support future road upgrades, improved drainage, and better traffic flow.
Urban planners have long warned that unchecked roadside development makes infrastructure expansion more expensive and disruptive. By reclaiming road reserves early, authorities aim to reduce compensation costs and project delays when road widening or rehabilitation becomes necessary.
Public Reaction and Accountability
Public reaction to the directive has been mixed. Many road users have welcomed the move, arguing that excessive billboards clutter roads and compromise safety. Others have called for consistent enforcement across all highways to avoid selective application of the law.
KeNHA responded by stating that enforcement will continue across multiple corridors and that the James Gichuru–JKIA road is only one of several targeted areas.
What Comes Next
KeNHA has indicated that monitoring teams will be deployed to ensure compliance with the removal order. The authority also plans to work with other government agencies to prevent future encroachments and improve coordination in approving roadside developments.
Motorists have been advised to remain cautious during the removal process, as temporary disruptions may occur while structures are dismantled.
The Kenya National Highways Authority’s decision to order the removal of roadside billboards and illegal structures along the James Gichuru–JKIA road underscores the government’s renewed focus on road safety, infrastructure protection, and lawful land use.
While the directive may inconvenience some businesses, KeNHA insists it is a necessary step to safeguard public roads, reduce accidents, and support long-term transport planning. As enforcement continues, the move is expected to set a precedent for stricter control of roadside developments across Kenya’s national highways.
