As the Saba Saba protests in Kenya 2025 take center stage, Nairobi city centre has virtually shut down, with business operations grinding to a halt. Police have mounted roadblocks on all major roads leading into the Central Business District (CBD), and only a handful of pedestrians can be seen along typically crowded areas such as Moi Avenue, particularly around Kencom and the National Archives.
These two areas, usually buzzing with commuters and vendors, now resemble a ghost town. The impact of the anticipated protests, coupled with memories of violence, looting, and destruction during previous demonstrations, has led to a citywide shutdown of shops and institutions.
Heightened Security in Nairobi CBD Ahead of 2025 Saba Saba Protests
A spot check by local reporters on the morning of July 7 revealed a heavy police presence across Nairobi’s CBD. Security personnel from various specialized units—including mounted police officers on horseback—were spotted patrolling key intersections and open spaces.
The National Police Service (NPS) has taken an aggressive security posture, stating it will not tolerate any attempts to access protected government installations such as Parliament or State House, and has warned of stern action against looters and those inciting violence.
“Looting, vandalism of any form, and destruction of property under the guise of protests shall not be tolerated. Such acts are criminal,” reads part of the police statement released Sunday evening.
Businesses in Nairobi Close Doors Over Fear of Looting
As early as Sunday evening, Nairobi traders began barricading their shops with metal grills, with some going as far as removing stock entirely to avoid losses. This response was triggered by widespread fears of looting, which have become common during recent demonstrations.
During the June 25 protests, several shops were broken into and looted. As a result, many business owners in Nairobi CBD have adopted a “better safe than sorry” approach to avoid repeat incidents.
“I decided to empty my shop yesterday. Last time I lost over Ksh 300,000 worth of goods when the protesters broke in. I cannot take that risk again,” said a trader in Tom Mboya Street.
Major Roads Locked Down Across Nairobi
The police have established roadblocks on virtually all major arteries leading into the city, including:
- Waiyaki Way
- Kenyatta Avenue
- Jogoo Road
- Thika Road
- Kiambu Road
- Mombasa Road
- Uhuru Highway
- Valley Road
- Eastern Bypass
- Other key feeder roads
Only vehicles with emergency services or those belonging to the government were being allowed through. The move has caused massive transport paralysis, leaving thousands of commuters stranded.
Police Roadblocks in Nairobi Defy Court Order
The decision to erect roadblocks in the city contradicts a court order that explicitly barred the police from blocking roads ahead of the Saba Saba protests. Legal experts and human rights defenders have condemned the move as unconstitutional and disruptive to ordinary citizens.
Despite the court ruling, the NPS justified its actions by citing intelligence reports and past incidents of violence that have endangered lives and property. However, critics argue that such preventive tactics amount to collective punishment.
Nairobi Institutions Shut Down, Classes Suspended
The shutdown is not limited to businesses. Learning institutions across Nairobi and other major cities have advised students to stay home and suspend physical classes until the situation normalizes. Many parents fear for their children’s safety, especially following recent protests that turned violent.
“We had no choice but to suspend classes. We’ve asked our students to resume learning on Tuesday if the situation is calm,” said the principal of a private school in Westlands.
Saba Saba Protests 2025: A Youth-Led Digital Uprising
The 2025 Saba Saba protests have gained momentum, largely powered by a youth-led online movement demanding greater government accountability, economic reforms, and an end to police brutality. Social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Facebook have been used to mobilize supporters, share protest routes, and amplify grievances.
This year’s protests carry the symbolic weight of the original Saba Saba protests of July 7, 1990, when Kenyans first took to the streets to demand multiparty democracy. Over three decades later, young Kenyans are invoking that spirit to push for a new wave of political and economic reforms.
Similar Scenes in Mombasa and Other Cities
In Mombasa, a similar situation unfolded. Police mounted roadblocks in Likoni, Nyali, and Changamwe, conducting routine checks on motorists and controlling entry into key areas of the coastal city. Businesses also remained shuttered, and the usually busy ferry crossings had reduced traffic.
Reports from Kisumu, Eldoret, Nakuru, and Kakamega also indicate increased police presence and road closures.
Police Promise to Protect Life and Property
While the security response has drawn criticism, the NPS insists its primary objective is to protect life and property. In its statement, the police service urged officers to exercise professionalism and restraint while enforcing the law.
“We assure Kenyans that our role is to safeguard both property and lives during this tense period. Officers have been reminded to avoid excessive force and maintain public trust,” said police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga.
Still, the fear among citizens and business owners suggests that trust in the police remains fragile, especially after numerous allegations of brutality and extrajudicial killings in recent months.
Public Reaction: Mixed Emotions and Growing Frustration
For many Nairobi residents, Monday morning was one of confusion, inconvenience, and growing dissatisfaction with both protesters and police actions.
Some supported the protests as a legitimate form of expression, while others felt caught in the crossfire between citizens and the state.
“We want the government to hear our cries, but blocking roads and closing businesses just hurts ordinary Kenyans,” said a commuter stranded near GPO.
Taxi drivers, boda boda riders, and public transport operators also expressed concern about lost income.
Conclusion
The Saba Saba Day protests in Kenya 2025 have disrupted life in Nairobi and other major towns, with heightened security, closed businesses, and massive transport paralysis. While protesters continue to demand reform, the government has responded with forceful measures aimed at preempting unrest.
What remains to be seen is whether peaceful protest and dialogue can be upheld amid this climate of tension, fear, and political uncertainty.