Kenya: Nairobi airports to close for Jamhuri Day December 12

Event

The Kenyan airline, Fly540, has announced that Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) will close between 11:00 and 12:00 (local time) on Thursday, December 12, due to Jamhuri Day celebrations. Another Kenyan airline, EastAfrican, also said that Wilson Airport (WIL) will close between 09:00 and 14:00. Both airlines warned of delays and told passengers to contact their airline for more information.

Kenyan government officials are holding Jamhuri Day celebrations at the Nyayo Stadium, where they have said that they expect at least 30,000 people to attend including several foreign and domestic dignitaries. A heightened security presence and localized transport and business disruptions are expected near the stadium and throughout the capital. 

Context

On December 12 each year, Kenyans celebrate Jamhuri Day to mark the date when Kenya became an independent republic in 1963. It is a national holiday.

Advice

Individuals flying via NBO or WIL are advised to keep abreast of the situation, confirm the status of their flights prior to departure for the airport, and to contact their airline for additional information. Individuals in Nairobi are advised to anticipate transport and business disruptions, and to adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.