NAIROBI — Major cities across Kenya were hit by widespread protests on Monday as thousands of demonstrators marked the annual “Saba Saba” movement, disrupting transport, business activities and public services.
The demonstrations were reported in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret, with security forces deployed in large numbers to monitor the gatherings and prevent unrest.
Several roads leading into central Nairobi were closed, while police established checkpoints that restricted the movement of people and vehicles. Many businesses remained shuttered, and some schools and transport services suspended operations amid concerns over possible clashes.
Protesters called for greater government accountability, an end to alleged police abuses, stronger action against corruption and measures to address the country’s rising cost of living and economic challenges.
“Saba Saba,” meaning “Seven Seven” in Swahili, commemorates the pro-democracy protests of July 7, 1990, when opposition politicians and democracy activists demanded the introduction of a multiparty political system during the rule of former President Daniel arap Moi.
Although the demonstrations were met with a heavy security response at the time, they are widely regarded as a turning point in Kenya’s political history and helped pave the way for the restoration of multiparty politics in 1991.
In recent years, particularly following the youth-led Gen Z protests of 2024, Saba Saba has evolved into a platform for Kenyans to voice concerns over governance, economic conditions, civil liberties and public accountability.
The latest demonstrations underscore continuing public frustration over economic hardship and governance issues, despite government efforts to address growing social and political pressures.
