Tight Security and Designated Route Closures as Record 17,450 Set for Nairobi City Marathon
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
By Robert Kibet
Nairobi is set for one of its most extensive sporting takeovers this Sunday as the fifth edition of the Nairobi City Marathon brings together a record-breaking field, heightened security operations, and sweeping road closures that will reshape movement across the capital for most of the day.
A total of 17,450 athletes have registered for the event, the highest turnout in the race’s history, reflecting its rapid growth and rising profile in the region’s athletics calendar.
Competition Director Kennedy Tanui said the overwhelming demand forced organisers to cap entries for logistical and safety reasons.
“We reached the maximum capacity allowed by our operational plan, and the system automatically closed registrations once the limit was hit,” said Tanui.“The interest we have seen this year shows how far the marathon has grown, and we are now working toward a more structured expansion in the coming editions.”
Elite field and rising stakes
The marathon has also attracted a strong elite lineup, with international-calibre athletes expected to battle for top honours. Organisers say more than 1,700 elite runners will feature across categories.
Prize money has been significantly raised, with the winner of the full marathon set to earn KSh 3.5 million, while second and third place will take KSh 2.5 million and KSh 1.5 million respectively. Payouts extend to the top ten finishers, underscoring the event’s ambition to compete with leading global city marathons.
Tanui noted that long-term plans are already in motion to expand participation further.
“Our target is to grow this event to about 30,000 runners in the near future,” he said. “This is part of a structured 10-year development framework aimed at making Nairobi a global marathon destination.”
Elite field and rising stakes
The marathon has also attracted a strong elite lineup, with international-calibre athletes expected to battle for top honours. Organisers say more than 1,700 elite runners will feature across categories.
Prize money has been significantly raised, with the winner of the full marathon set to earn KSh 3.5 million, while second and third place will take KSh 2.5 million and KSh 1.5 million respectively. Payouts extend to the top ten finishers, underscoring the event’s ambition to compete with leading global city marathons.
Tanui noted that long-term plans are already in motion to expand participation further.
“Our target is to grow this event to about 30,000 runners in the near future,” he said. “This is part of a structured 10-year development framework aimed at making Nairobi a global marathon destination.”
Specific route closures
The marathon will trigger targeted closures across major transport corridors and CBD streets.
The Nairobi Expressway will be fully closed in both directions from ames Gichuru to JKIA from Saturday 10:00 PM to Sunday 3:00 PM.
Waiyaki Way (inner lanes only) will be closed from Nairobi School to the Expressway entrance between Sunday midnight and 10:00 AM.
In the city centre, Uhuru Highway will be closed between Lusaka Roundabout and Museum Hill from Sunday midnight to 2:00 PM, forming a key segment of the race route.
Other affected roads include:
● Kenyatta Avenue (Panafric Hotel to Moi Avenue): Midnight – 4:00 PM
● Haile Selassie Avenue & Processional Way (Cathedral Road to Uhuru Highway): Midnight – 4:00 PM
● City Hall Way: Midnight – 2:00 PM
● Simba Street: Midnight – 2:00 PM
● Moi Avenue (University Way to City Hall Way): Midnight – 2:00 PM
● University Way (Uhuru Highway to Slip Road): Midnight – 2:00 PM
● Muindi Mbingu Street: Midnight – 2:00 PM
● Koinange Street: Midnight – 2:00 PM
Authorities have advised motorists to use alternative routes and expect delays as normal traffic flow resumes progressively after the race concludes.
City prepares for race-day transformation
Despite the disruptions, organisers say Nairobi is ready for a controlled but vibrant sporting spectacle, with designated viewing zones and fan engagement areas expected along the course.
As the capital prepares to host thousands of runners and spectators, the marathon continues to cement its position as one of the fastest-growing city races in Africa, defined by record participation, tightened security, and carefully managed route closures.
