A collision between a lorry and a 14-seater matatu occurred on Monday evening near the GSU headquarters along Thika Road, leading to heavy traffic congestion. The Motorists Association of Kenya confirmed the incident, noting buildup on both sides of the road and advising caution on service lanes. As of publication, it remains unclear if there were casualties, and the lorry had not been cleared from the scene.
A major traffic snarl-up occurred along Thika Road after an accident involving a lorry and a 14-seater PSV on the evening of Monday, January 12, 2026. The collision took place near the GSU Headquarters on the lower section near Alsops, bringing traffic to a near standstill during peak hours.
Motorists heading towards Kahawa West, Githurai 44 and 45, Kahawa Sukari, and Ruiru were most affected, with traffic stretching to the Survey of Kenya area. Eyewitnesses reported vehicles barely moving as drivers struggled to navigate the blocked section, forcing some to abandon the route. In a statement, the Motorists Association of Kenya confirmed the incident, warning that 'traffic had built up on both sides of the road and urging drivers to exercise caution while using the service lanes.'
Drivers were advised to use alternative routes, including Kiambu Road, then connect through the Northern Bypass before rejoining Thika Road at Ruiru to avoid the congestion. Photos and videos showed the lorry toppled in the middle of the road, completely blocking traffic; it appeared to be ferrying jerrycans among other items. A few metres ahead, the matatu was upright but out of position, with witnesses stating it had been struck from behind.
Public service vehicles along the corridor were also caught in the gridlock, worsening delays for commuters heading home from work. At the time of publication, it remains unclear whether there were casualties, and the lorry had not been cleared, raising concerns about prolonged disruption if action is delayed. The Motorists’ Association has called on the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to urgently clear the scene.
Thika Road is one of Nairobi’s busiest highways, and even minor disruptions often result in hours-long traffic jams. Accidents along this highway are typically coupled with huge snarl-ups, with motorists advised to plan journeys in advance, monitor traffic updates, and consider alternative routes until resolved.
