KeNHA issues alternative routes to ease traffic during Safari rally

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced four alternative routes for motorists traveling to Naivasha ahead of the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally, which kicks off on Thursday, March 20, and runs until Sunday, March 23.

This aims to alleviate the traffic disruptions often caused by the rally, which draws large crowds from both within Kenya and abroad.

In a statement released on Thursday, KeNHA emphasized the need for motorists to plan their routes in advance to avoid congestion during the rally, which is known for its traffic jams as attendees travel to Naivasha and police enforce roadblocks to ensure the safe passage of rally vehicles.

The authority has mapped out four alternative routes to help ease the traffic flow.

The first route, known as “the scenic route,” will take motorists from Nairobi to Lanet, passing through Rironi, the flyover at Magumu, Njabini, Ol Kalou, and Dundori.

The second option, “the adventure route,” also covers Nairobi to Lanet but avoids the Magumu flyover, taking motorists through Naivasha and Engineer before reaching Ol Kalou, Dundori, and Lanet.

For those traveling from Nairobi, the “Thika Trail” route will take motorists through Thika, then on to the Magumu flyover, Ol Kalou, and Dundori before reaching Lanet.

Finally, the “Suswa shortcut” will lead motorists through Ngong town, branching off to Kibiko, and then ending up at Suswa. However, KeNHA has advised that this route, which includes a gravel stretch, is best suited for 4x4 vehicles.

These alternative routes come in response to complaints from past rally attendees who have been inconvenienced by the heavy traffic jams, which often prevent them from enjoying the full experience.

There have been calls for better planning and transport logistics to address these challenges.

This year’s Safari Rally promises to be the longest edition since its return to the WRC calendar in 2021, covering a 384.86 km route and introducing new stages, including the vineyard-lined Mzabibu (12.36 km) and the Camp Moran (32.2 km) endurance test.

The ceremonial flag-off will take place at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi on Thursday, followed by the Super Special Stage in Kasarani, a 4.76 km stretch.

The first day will conclude with the Mzabibu stage. A 5 km shakedown stage was held on Wednesday, March 19.

This year’s rally will feature both local and international drivers, including defending champion Kalle Rovanperä from Toyota Gazoo Racing, current WRC series leader Elfyn Evans, and 2024 WRC series champion Thierry Neuville.

Kenyan drivers, including Carl Tundo, Karan Patel, Jeremiah Wahome, and Hamza Anwar, will also compete, with the hope of ending the long drought since the last Kenyan win in 1994 by Ian Duncan.