The Saba Saba protests on July 7, 2025, brought Kenya to a standstill, with police roadblocks in 17 counties causing widespread business closures and an estimated Sh18 billion daily GDP loss, according to economic analysts.
The demonstrations, marking the 35th anniversary of the historic 1990 Saba Saba pro-democracy movement, escalated tensions over rising living costs, police brutality, and governance issues under President William Ruto’s administration.
Major cities, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru, saw significant disruptions as authorities sealed off key roads to prevent gatherings, severely impacting the nation’s economy.
In Nairobi, police erected roadblocks on major routes such as Waiyaki Way, Kenyatta Avenue, Jogoo Road, Mombasa Road, Thika Road, and Uhuru Highway, barring both private and public vehicles from accessing the Central Business District (CBD).
Only emergency and government vehicles were allowed through, forcing commuters to walk long distances.
The Nairobi Business Coalition reported that over 65% of CBD businesses remained shuttered, with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) estimating a single-day loss of over KSh 3 billion in the capital alone.
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), vital to Kenya’s economy, faced severe losses, with many lacking the financial resilience to weather prolonged disruptions.
Protests spread to 17 of Kenya’s 47 counties, including Meru, Nyeri, and Nakuru, where violent clashes led to at least 11 deaths, according to police reports.
In Meru’s Makutano town, a shopping centre was set ablaze, and in Ol Kalou, one protester was killed by gunfire.
The heavy police presence, including anti-riot units and water cannons, aimed to deter demonstrations but fuelled public anger over excessive force.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, unable to attend a planned Kamukunji rally due to roadblocks, condemned the “rogue police force” and called for a national dialogue on reforms.
The economic fallout threatens Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals, with Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui warning that recurring protests deter investors.
Schools and universities, including USIU-Africa, shifted to virtual learning, citing safety concerns.
As Kenya grapples with this unrest, the Saba Saba protests highlight deep-seated grievances, with analysts warning that without meaningful reforms, economic and social instability may persist.
