- Widespread Disruptions as Saba Saba Protests Paralyse Major Roads Across Kenya
Protest-related disruptions have severely affected transport and business operations in several regions across Kenya, including routes leading into Nairobi County. On Monday, July 7, demonstrations linked to the annual Saba Saba Day saw major highways barricaded, with protesters setting fires and blocking roads with stones and debris.
Visuals shared online captured scenes from the Karatina-Nairobi and Embu-Nairobi highways, where demonstrators lit bonfires and obstructed traffic using tyres and wooden planks. The growing unrest prompted widespread business closures along these key routes, with traders citing safety concerns.
Security forces deployed to contain the demonstrations faced mounting challenges. In Mwea, a protester voiced concerns about the escalating situation, noting, “It began early in the day and appears to be intensifying.”
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Organizers of the protests indicated that the Saba Saba mobilization aims to pressure President William Ruto’s administration to address socio-economic concerns raised by the public.
In Nairobi, heightened security measures led to roadblocks being erected on several major access points into the Central Business District. Thousands of commuters found themselves stranded as police restricted movement in areas typically central to public demonstrations.
Among the roads impacted were sections of Thika Road near Roysambu, Kasarani, and Guri Nanak; parts of Mombasa Road including GM and Bunyala Roundabouts; as well as the Eastern Bypass at 75 Roundabout. Other roads affected included Waiyaki Way, Kangundo Road, Jogoo Road, Kiambu Road, Landhies Road, Uhuru Highway, Kenyatta Avenue, Arwings Kodhek, and Valley Road.
Public service transport came to a halt at these roadblocks, with only private vehicles permitted passage—often after thorough security checks. As a result, thousands of workers were unable to reach their offices, leading to widespread absenteeism.
Despite the turmoil, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, speaking from Embu on Sunday, July 6, maintained that all civil servants were expected to report to work as usual. He emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring safety and business continuity.
The National Police Service (NPS) echoed this stance, releasing a firm statement warning protestors against any form of criminal activity under the guise of peaceful assembly. The agency warned that those caught inciting violence, looting, or damaging property would face swift legal consequences.
“Any attempt to enter restricted or government-protected areas will be treated as a serious offense under the Protected Areas Act, Cap 204 of Kenyan law,” the statement read. It further emphasized that blocking roads or engaging in vandalism would not be tolerated.
Meanwhile, Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui, in a message shared on Saturday, July 5, urged citizens to remain alert and avoid actions that could result in the destruction of property or endanger businesses.
He expressed concern that criminal groups were exploiting peaceful protests to sow fear and instability. “This pattern is unacceptable. Many business owners now operate in fear of looting or violence,” Kinyanjui warned.
As tensions continue to rise, the country remains on high alert, with calls for dialogue and calm growing louder amid the unrest.
