The Kenya Urban Roads Authority has responded with humour and clarity to public concerns and online jokes over strange structures seen rising along Kenyatta Avenue in Nairobi, confirming that the ongoing works are part of a major road project, not rogue apartments.

Amid growing speculation, including memes and lighthearted comments suggesting the installations resembled “roadside flats,” KURA clarified that the structures are not residential buildings but part of the construction of a viaduct connecting Valley Road to Kenyatta Avenue.

“Mnauliza nani anajenga nyumba Kenyatta Avenue? Aje sasa watu wangu? Tunajenga viaduct,” the agency posted online, using playful language to dispel rumours while educating the public on the project’s purpose.

Engineer Benjamin Asin, who is involved in the works, explained that the structures being seen are hoardings—temporary protective walls erected to ensure safety for both pedestrians and motorists as construction intensifies.

"I have seen many questions. I just want to clarify that these are not houses. We are simply creating a safe working space. This is a high-traffic area, and the machinery we are using demands serious protection,” said Asin.

He further added, “This is a very active and busy area. The viaduct needs heavy machinery, and we need very reliable protection while we build.”

The hoardings mark the start of a long-awaited infrastructure upgrade. Once completed, the elevated road will allow vehicles to bypass traffic bottlenecks and junctions along the route, cutting down congestion and delays in one of the city's most used corridors.

A viaduct is a raised roadway supported by pillars, designed to span across busy or obstructed areas such as roads, valleys, or urban centres.

Unlike standard bridges that typically span a river or narrow section, viaducts stretch over longer distances and maintain a consistent gradient, allowing smoother and more continuous traffic flow.

The Kenyatta Avenue viaduct project aims to enhance movement by creating a direct connection between Valley Road and Kenyatta Avenue. Vehicles will use the elevated route to avoid ground-level traffic interruptions, easing flow and reducing pressure on surrounding roads.

Initially planned for completion in 2023, the project stalled due to financial constraints. However, KURA now aims to complete the viaduct by October 2025.

The project covers a dual carriageway stretching about seven kilometres and includes two overpasses, additional connecting roads, and features such as walkways and cycling lanes to support inclusive urban mobility.