Thika Superhighway Relief: Globe Roundabout Reopens After Week-Long Disruption

Motorists commuting along the Thika Superhighway can finally breathe easy. Globe Roundabout, a major bottleneck in Nairobi, has reopened after urgent restoration works on the Nairobi River Bridge.

The temporary closure, which began on March 12, caused significant delays for commuters traveling between the CBD, Kipande Road, and Thika. Traffic was diverted to secondary routes, creating congestion in nearby streets. KeNHA acted swiftly to minimize disruption. “Motorists can now resume normal travel along this section,” said Luka Kimeli, the authority’s Director General.

Engineers completed critical reinstatement work on time, ensuring the bridge is safe and traffic flows smoothly. During the closure, traffic heading to the CBD used Globe Overpass, while vehicles toward University Way were rerouted through Prof. Wangari Maathai Road. Kipande Road traffic took Limuru Road via Fig Tree before reconnecting to the main corridor.

Commuters expressed relief at the reopening. Many described the week-long diversions as chaotic but necessary. The project, KeNHA said, strengthens road safety and reduces wear on the bridge, preventing long-term damage.

Authorities thanked motorists and residents for their patience. “KeNHA appreciates the cooperation, patience, and understanding demonstrated by motorists and residents during this period,” the statement read.

Urban planners say the Globe Roundabout project highlights the importance of proactive maintenance. With the city’s population growing, quick interventions are key to avoiding traffic disasters. Experts predict travel times along the Thika Superhighway will now improve significantly.

The reopening signals more infrastructure upgrades ahead. KeNHA plans to continue restoring other high-traffic sections to reduce bottlenecks and enhance commuter experience.

This brief closure and efficient reopening serve as a reminder of Nairobi’s constant struggle to balance maintenance with heavy urban traffic. Commuters are now hoping that similar projects will be managed with minimal disruption in the future.