Confusion, gridlock in Kisumu CBD as County gov't launches car free Saturday as part of non- motorised transport system project

Motorists in Kisumu County have been left reeling following the unveiling of a car-free day in the city’s Central Business District on Friday.

The car free day, which has taken effect today, will see vehicles and motorcycles barred from accessing the country’s third-biggest city. According to Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga, three major streets will be temporarily closed with access only granted to pedestrians.

“All public service vehicles will not be allowed in the CBD during those hours and the designated days,” Wanga said in a statement. 

The County’s move was informed by Kisumu city’s recent revamping of major streets in the metropolis and abolition of parking lots from the main streets. The project is being steered by Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong’o, in partnership with the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat).