Authorities announce diversions after closure of section of Mombasa Links Road as major drainage project begins

A key section of Links Road near the Quickmart area in Nyali has been closed to traffic for the next six months to allow for the construction of a new stormwater drainage system, sparking a raft of traffic diversions and access measures aimed at reducing disruptions.

The 230-metre stretch, earmarked for upgrades by the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and the Mombasa County Government, is part of ongoing efforts to improve drainage infrastructure, enhance road safety, and support pedestrian and cyclist mobility within the city’s northern corridor.

Despite the closure, officials have moved to reassure the public that all businesses within the construction zone, including shops and offices, will remain accessible throughout the project.

KURA has pledged to construct three temporary access ramps to enable continued entry to commercial premises along the affected road section.

“We recognise the inconvenience this may cause, but these interventions are necessary to prevent future flooding and to improve traffic flow in Nyali,” said Daniel Manyala, Mombasa County Executive Committee Member for Transport, Infrastructure, and Governance.

To help redirect traffic, motorists heading to popular destinations such as City Mall and Nyali Centre are being urged to use Mt Kenya Road, while through traffic is advised to opt for New Malindi Road as the preferred alternative.



Additional traffic adjustments have also been rolled out.

Vehicles leaving Kongowea Market are encouraged to use Kwa Karama Road via Ratna Square or divert through the Kwa Karama–New Malindi Road link while access to Kongowea Market remains open.

Increased congestion is expected on Fidel Odinga Road, Old Malindi Road, and surrounding routes.

Movement of heavy goods vehicles across Nyali Bridge, Links Road, and New Malindi Road will continue to be restricted during peak hours, specifically from 6:00 am to 9:30 am and again between 3:30 pm and 8:00 pm as part of existing traffic control measures.

The county has maintained its Morning Express and Happy Hour windows to ease commuter movement during rush hours.

Alongside the drainage upgrade, the county is also laying dedicated cycling lanes on both Links and Fidel Odinga Roads in a bid to promote safer and greener transport options.

“We urge all road users to observe the traffic diversions, obey signage, and cooperate with marshals on the ground,” said Manyala, adding that the County Inspectorate will work closely with the National Police Service to manage traffic and minimise delays.

Coast Region Traffic Enforcement Officer George Kashmiri added, “We have deployed sufficient personnel to support the flow of traffic, and the Happy Hour initiative will continue to help decongest key routes.”
The construction project is being undertaken under the Mombasa County Roads Act, 2016, and is in line with broader national efforts to modernise urban infrastructure.