Nairobi on Edge as Saba Saba Day Protests Grip Kenya

Nairobi, Kenya – July 7, 2025, marks Saba Saba Day, a date etched in Kenya’s history for pro-democracy movements, and the capital is experiencing significant disruption and heightened tension. Major roads leading into Nairobi are blocked by police, causing widespread traffic gridlock and leaving many citizens stranded. According to reports from AP News and Al Jazeera, most businesses in the city center are closed, and schools have been shut down in anticipation of large-scale demonstrations.

The current wave of protests is largely driven by the “Gen Z” movement, a youth-led initiative that has gained momentum by vocally opposing police brutality, government corruption, and the escalating cost of living. The Elephant highlights the similarities between the current Gen Z movement and the historic Mau Mau struggle, noting the youthful and decentralized nature of their operations. Clashes have been reported on Thika Road, as protesters attempted to reach the Central Business District, met with tear gas and arrests, as detailed by AP News. There are also disturbing accounts of attacks on mothers protesting police brutality, as noted by Al Jazeera.

Opposition leader Raila Odinga has urged Kenyans to converge at Kamukunji Grounds to commemorate Saba Saba, a historical site for liberation movements. This call, reported by Eastleigh Voice, adds another layer to the political volatility. However, some concern about potential unrest is evident, with Kenyans.co.ke noting Kamukunji traders are protecting their businesses. Government officials, including Public Service Minister Geoffrey Ruku, have warned civil servants against skipping work, while others, like MP Robert Mbui, accuse the government of using roadblocks for intimidation, as cited by Citizen Digital.

Despite the current unrest, Kenya’s economy saw a steady 4.9% GDP growth in the first quarter of 2025, mirroring the growth from the same period last year. This growth, as reported by CNBC Africa and Xinhua, was largely propelled by the agriculture and mining sectors. The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) further elaborates that all economic sectors recorded positive growth, with favourable weather conditions bolstering agricultural output. However, sustained political instability and protests could pose a challenge to this positive economic trajectory.

This year’s Saba Saba protests underscore deep-seated societal grievances and political dynamics in Kenya, echoing the historical struggles for democracy.

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