The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) announced seven alternative routes to alleviate severe traffic congestion on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway and Rironi-Mai Mahiu-Naivasha road, urging motorists to exercise caution and lane discipline amidst the ongoing gridlock.

• The traffic surge is attributed to elements including minor accidents, road maintenance, poor lane discipline, and increased vehicle volume, particularly peaking during the festive season.
• KeNHA is collaborating with the National Police Service (NPS) to manage traffic flow along affected routes.
• The authority noted "a surge in traffic volumes" along the Rironi-Nakuru-Mau Summit (A8) Road and the Rironi-Mai Mahiu-Naivasha (A8 South) Road on Wednesday, December 24.

Despite economic challenges, Kenyans are making their annual mass exodus from cities to their rural villages for Christmas, seeking respite from urban pressures and a reconnection with family and cultural roots. This yearly tradition, driven by a desire for rest and belonging, highlights the enduring significance of ancestral homes.

• The migration sees buses and matatus filled beyond capacity with passengers bound for upcountry destinations like Kisii, Kitui, Kakamega, and Kajiado.
• Nairobi-based accountant Dennis Mwangi (32) describes the journey home to Murang’a as "less about celebration and more about survival" due to overwhelming city life.
• Dr. Ruth Achieng, a Nairobi-based counsellor, emphasizes that in the village, people "feel seen and supported," offering a profoundly restorative sense of safety and community.
• Many families are opting for simpler village routines over expensive city celebrations, with boda boda rider Peter Ouma noting that in the village, "Christmas is not about spending money."