Nairobians defy State House to grant themselves a ‘holiday’
Nairobi central business district was virtually deserted Friday morning as city residents opted to stay away from the inconveniences expected during President Barack Obama’s visit.
Traffic flow on major roads and within the central business district was smooth, a contrast from the expected gridlock after the government had announced closure of major roads beginning Friday afternoon.
|The Public Service Vehicles industry was also heavily affected with a majority of commuters opting to stay away from the CBD.
Several routes that normally experience busy traffic during working days in the city especially along Eastlands estates, Outer Ring, Embakassi, Lang’ata and Waiyaki Way experienced smooth traffic.
As a result, matatus plying these routes reduced their fares with several matatus spotted parked along terminus an indicator of a low business day.
Business in the city centre was also low key, with deserted streets being witnessed everywhere.
Several banks in Nairobi had announced that they will close their doors at noon Friday ahead of President Obama’s arrival.
Most universities with campuses in the city centre also remained closed after students had expressed fears they would have problems going back home.
The impact reduced human traffic in the CBD is expected to trickle over to several businesses in town, including food joints, boutiques, restaurants, barbershops and salons ahead of the US President’s arrival.