Traffic Snarl-Up as University Students Protest in Nairobi, Block Roads

In images and videos seen by The Kenya Times, the UoN students have lit bonfires, burnt tyres and used stones to barricade sections of the highway as they demand an immediate resolution to the dispute that has disrupted learning at the university.

The demonstrations have caused a traffic snarl-up along Waiyaki Way, with motorists struggling to pass through the affected sections.

The UoN students have taken to the streets to express their frustration over the prolonged strike, which has left them missing lectures and examinations and uncertain about when they will complete their studies.

Some protesters carry placards, twigs and whistles as they chant slogans calling on the government to address the lecturers’ grievances and allow learning to resume.

The protests come less than a week after the University of Nairobi Students Association (UNSA) issued the government a 72-hour ultimatum to resolve the dispute.

In a statement on Friday, October 16, UNSA President Ahmed Rashid warned that students would join protests if the government failed to reach a solution within the deadline.

UNSA leadership said the government has failed to address the deteriorating situation in public institutions, which has paralyzed learning.

UNSA Chief of Staff Michael Soi noted: “There are students who are supposed to be sitting for their exams, for example pharmacy students, but they are not sitting.”

“Students are plunged into depression, students are sinking into taking drugs, students are idle,” The association Secretary General Tony Ochieng added.

Also Read: Ogamba Breaks Silence on University Lecturers’ Strike

Led by UASU leaders, the students are calling for the resignation of Education CS Julius Ogamba, accusing him of failing to resolve the impasse.

The students’ demonstrations come as lecturers continue their nationwide strike, which began on October 2 over the implementation of the 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

The Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) and other university staff unions want the government to negotiate, sign and fully implement the agreement, which covers salaries, allowances and other employment terms.

UASU Secretary General Constantine Wasonga has insisted that the agreement must have a clear financial commitment from the government, particularly the National Treasury.

Also Read: University Lecturers Announce Mega Protests as Strike Deepens

The unresolved dispute has disrupted academic activities at the University of Nairobi, prompting students to demand an end to the strike.

The latest protests increase pressure on the government and university staff unions to reach an agreement and restore normal learning.

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Tags: UoN StudentsWaiyaki Way Annah Nanjala Wekesa Annah Nanjala Wekesa is a journalist at The Kenya Times, with a passion for crafting news-worthy stories that leave a lasting impact. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media from Kisii University. She has honed her skills in the art of storytelling and journalism. Her passion lies in the art of storytelling that resonates with audiences, driving a commitment to delivering news-worthy stories through the lens of integrity and precision. She can be reached at [email protected]

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