Business owners fortify operations ahead of Saba Saba protests

Business owners in Thika town are taking action to protect their livelihoods before today’s planned Saba Saba protests. Still recovering from an estimated KSh 200 million in losses from recent Gen Z-led demonstrations that involved looting and vandalism, traders are now forming private security teams.

Alfred Wanyoike, Chairperson of the Thika District Business Association, said the business community must protect their shops and premises in case chaos breaks out. This decision follows police assurances of increased surveillance and readiness to handle any violence.

The same tension is rising in Juja town. Rachel Ng’ang’a, a boutique owner and representative of Juja traders, urged law enforcement to enhance regional security and prevent further unrest.

Ng’ang’a, who owns Brooklin, a beauty and clothing shop, noted that continued protests have heavily disrupted businesses. She called on political leaders to resolve their differences and initiate dialogue to restore stability.

The largely youth-led Saba Saba protests have gathered momentum across Kenya in recent weeks. Originally sparked by opposition to the Finance Bill and the rising cost of living, the demonstrations have evolved into a broader call for government accountability. Protesters are voicing concerns over high taxation, unemployment, and police brutality. The July 7th protests, named after a historic day of activism, have attracted national attention following arrests, injuries, and deaths during earlier demonstrations.

In Thika and Juja, key commercial hubs in Kiambu County, traders are on high alert. Many shops along Kenyatta Highway and Thika Superhighway remained closed this morning. The streets were unusually quiet, with some stores displaying closure notices citing security concerns. Others reinforced their premises with metal grills.

The Thika Business Association has advised members to shut down early and avoid the central business district. Meanwhile, private security teams in reflective jackets have begun patrolling major shopping areas as a deterrent to looters.

Kiambu police say they have deployed more officers in Thika and Juja to prevent the destruction seen in earlier demonstrations. Officers, both in uniform and plain clothes, are stationed at key locations including markets, bus terminals, and fuel stations.

Despite these efforts, uncertainty lingers. Some residents support peaceful protests, while others fear further disruptions. Nationwide protests are expected today, with coordinated actions planned in Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Eldoret. In each town, small business owners face the same dilemma: stay open and risk damage or close for safety.