The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has directed advertisers and utility wayleave holders operating along national highways to renew their permits within 14 days, warning that enforcement action will follow once the deadline lapses.
In a notice dated February 10, 2026, the authority said the directive applies to all individuals and companies that have existing approvals for roadside billboards, directional signage, and utility installations located within the national road reserve.
KeNHA said the renewal process includes payment of annual permit fees as well as clearance of any outstanding arrears, in accordance with the conditions attached to the permits.
According to the authority, all renewals and payments must be completed exclusively through the KeNHA Online Permit Portal, which will serve as the sole platform for processing the applications.
Acting Director General Luka Kimeli stated that the compliance deadline is Tuesday, February 24, 2026. He warned that failure to meet the deadline would trigger enforcement measures without further notice.
“At the end of the compliance period, enforcement action will commence, including removal of unauthorized structures and recovery of all associated costs from the owners or their agents,” Kimeli said.
He cautioned that non-compliant billboards, directional signs, and wayleave installations along national highways will not be spared once enforcement begins, adding that the cost of demolitions and related actions will be charged to the responsible parties.
KeNHA also advised businesses and individuals who rely on services offered through roadside advertisements or utility wayleaves to ensure that their service providers are fully compliant.
Kimeli urged such users to carry out due diligence by submitting copies of valid permits to the authority for verification.
The aim of the verification process, he said, is to ensure that only legally authorized structures continue operating within the national highway corridor.
Kimeli explained that the directive forms part of KeNHA’s broader mandate to regulate and manage developments within the national road reserve, safeguard road infrastructure, and maintain order along major transport corridors.
The notice comes just a day after the authority issued a separate enforcement directive targeting roadside traders along sections of the Thika Superhighway, specifically at Roysambu and Githurai.
Traders in those areas were given seven days to clear their goods from the road reserve to allow for the construction of designated bus bays meant to enhance road safety and reduce congestion.
KeNHA said both actions underline its commitment to improving compliance, protecting public road infrastructure, and ensuring safer and more orderly highways across the country.
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