The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has directed owners of unauthorised structures erected along three major highways to remove them within 30 days as part of a nationwide crackdown on road reserve encroachment.
In a public notice issued on Wednesday, May 28, the authority said the enforcement targets developments along the Chebarbar–Lessos–Nabkoi (B12), Mayoni–Bungoma (B139), and Chepsonoi–Kapsabet (B12) roads.
Structures Targeted in Crackdown
According to KeNHA, the directive applies to all structures and installations erected on road reserves without official approval.
The agency said affected developments include permanent and semi-permanent buildings, kiosks, billboards, advertising signs, tree nursery beds and other structures occupying sections reserved for road infrastructure.
KeNHA noted that the order covers both old road alignments and newly realigned highway corridors.
“All operators are hereby directed to remove the said structures within 30 days from the date of this notice to pave the way for implementation of road reserve protection activities,” the notice stated.
Deadline Set for June 26
The authority has given affected individuals and businesses until June 26, 2026, to comply with the directive.
KeNHA warned that any structures remaining on the road reserves after the deadline will be demolished without further notice.
The agency said the enforcement is being carried out under Clause 49 of the Roads Act, 2007, which grants KeNHA powers to protect and manage national road reserves.
Owners to Bear Demolition Costs
The highways authority further cautioned that the cost of removing illegal structures will be charged to the owners if forced demolitions become necessary.
The move places responsibility on businesses and individuals occupying road reserves unlawfully to comply before enforcement begins.
Push to Protect Road Reserves
The crackdown comes amid renewed efforts by road agencies to reclaim land reserved for highway expansion, drainage systems and road safety measures.
Encroachment on road reserves has remained a major challenge in many growing trading centres and urban areas, where businesses and informal settlements continue expanding toward major highways.
Authorities say such developments interfere with infrastructure projects and increase risks for motorists and pedestrians using the roads.
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