A section of Thika Superhighway near Kenyatta University was brought to a standstill earlier today as students from the institution staged a protest, blocking both lanes of the busy road. Commuters and motorists were urged to find alternative routes to avoid the unexpected snarl-up.
According to a post by commentator Francis Gaitho on social media, the demonstration follows the students’ announcement that they would join a broader national strike. Their grievances range from issues related to power outages affecting the campus since Sunday to complaints about delayed loans from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) and other concerns tied to student welfare.
Protest Details and Immediate Impact
Highway Closure
From mid-morning, Kenyatta University students took to the Thika Superhighway, forming human blockades and chanting slogans in unison. Their presence stalled traffic in both directions, quickly causing congestion that extended for kilometers.
Calls for Alternative Routes
Commuters were advised via social media posts and local radio stations to avoid Thika Road if possible. Authorities and traffic officers on-site began diverting vehicles onto service lanes and alternate roads, although slow movement persisted.
Escalating Tensions
As the demonstration grew, passing motorists witnessed heightened emotions among the students, some of whom carried placards expressing displeasure at the ongoing campus power outage and the state of loan disbursements. Occasional confrontations with the police were reported, but no major incidents were confirmed at the time of writing.
Key Grievances
Prolonged Power Outage
Students allege that sections of the Kenyatta University campus have been without electricity since Sunday, a situation they claim has disrupted learning, access to essential services like internet connectivity, and daily living in the hostels.
HELB Delays
The Higher Education Loans Board provides financial assistance to qualifying university students. Delays in disbursing these funds can lead to significant challenges, including difficulties paying for housing, meals, and academic materials.
Solidarity with National Strike
The protest is also linked to a broader nationwide demonstration. Student leaders indicated their intention to stand in solidarity with the national strike, showing unity with other groups raising socio-economic or political grievances.
Authorities’ Response
Local law enforcement and university administration representatives arrived at the scene to negotiate with the students and restore order. Traffic police directed vehicles onto alternative routes while attempting to engage the student leaders for a peaceful resolution. There were unverified reports that university officials promised to address the power outage immediately and expedite conversations with HELB regarding late loan disbursements.
University Administration
Officials have yet to issue a comprehensive public statement. However, campus notices reportedly pledged a swift effort to fix the power issue, citing technical challenges for the prolonged outage.
Law Enforcement
Police maintained a visible but relatively restrained presence. Some officers attempted to mediate between protestors and passersby, discouraging any escalation while ensuring the students’ right to peaceful demonstration.
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
Stranded Commuters
Hundreds of travelers were left stranded or facing lengthy delays. Public service vehicles trying to bypass the blockade contributed to minor traffic incidents on nearby service roads.
Social Media Commentary
Real-time updates from motorists and residents flooded Twitter, Instagram, and WhatsApp groups. Many expressed empathy for the students’ plight, noting that campus power outages and delayed HELB loans are longstanding issues. Others criticized the road blockage as counterproductive, arguing it punishes fellow citizens rather than pressuring policy-makers directly.
Looking Ahead
While the university community and local authorities work on an immediate solution, student representatives have signaled that unless their demands are addressed promptly, demonstrations could continue in various forms. The students insist that stable campus utilities and timely financial support are essential to their academic success.
At the time of writing, efforts to clear the highway were ongoing, with the expectation of partial reopening once dialogue between the students, administration, and government agencies shows signs of progress. In the meantime, commuters are urged to stay updated on official statements and traffic advisories before attempting to use Thika Superhighway.
In Summary
Kenyatta University students blocked the Thika Superhighway, protesting a campus power outage and delayed HELB loans.
Traffic disruptions have been significant, with advice for travelers to use alternate routes.
University officials and law enforcement are attempting to mediate the situation, promising immediate fixes for power issues and addressing funding concerns.
The evolving nature of the demonstration means developments may continue throughout the day. Observers hope open dialogue between students and the administration will bring a swift, peaceful resolution to what many view as long-neglected structural challenges.
