Business activities and public transport operations in Nyeri Town were significantly affected on Thursday as traders and public service vehicle operators stayed away from the central business district during the commemoration of the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024 Gen Z protests.
A spot check by the Kenya News Agency established that although government offices and banking institutions remained open and operational, most commercial premises within the town stayed closed, resulting in reduced economic activity.
The usually busy Nyeri Central Business District appeared largely deserted, with limited movement of people and vehicles. Public transport services were also disrupted after several matatu saccos withdrew their vehicles from operation over security concerns.
The three main matatu termini in the town recorded minimal activity, while many stalls and shops along the busy Gakere Road remained closed.
Security was visibly heightened, with anti-riot police officers deployed across strategic locations within the town and around key business premises. Several supermarkets and commercial establishments remained shut as owners sought to protect their investments from possible vandalism and looting.
Speaking to the press, Nyeri branch Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Chairperson Ibrahim Maina expressed concern over the disruption of business activities, noting that repeated demonstrations continue to have a negative impact on the local economy.
Maina, however, commended security agencies for maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of residents and businesses.
He said the business community had also mobilized private security personnel to work alongside police officers in safeguarding commercial premises.
“Most businesses in Nyeri have remained closed despite our appeal for traders to open because security has been strengthened. We encourage business owners to resume operations as security agencies and the business community continue working together to ensure safety,” he said.
Maina warned that frequent disruptions caused by demonstrations could discourage potential investors from establishing businesses in the county.
He noted that while many residents sympathize with the concerns raised by Gen Z protesters, the continued closure of businesses and interruption of economic activities comes at a significant cost.
“What we are experiencing in the market is not pleasing because the county loses millions of shillings whenever businesses close. When transport services are affected, the entire business ecosystem suffers. We hope normal operations resume so that economic activities can continue uninterrupted,” he added.
Nyeri Bodaboda Association Chairperson Charles Ndegwa said the association had mobilized about 450 volunteer riders to assist security officers in protecting businesses from criminal elements seeking to take advantage of the situation.
Ndegwa said the riders had resolved to work closely with law enforcement agencies to deter looting and vandalism.
“We have decided to support police officers in protecting businesses within Nyeri Town and other urban centres in the county. We have witnessed businesses incur losses worth millions of shillings during previous demonstrations after being attacked by criminals posing as protesters,” he said.
He added that any individuals found engaging in criminal activities would be apprehended and handed over to the relevant authorities for legal action.
The June 25, 2024 protests were among the largest demonstrations witnessed in the country in recent years, with young people taking to the streets in opposition to the Finance Bill 2024.
The protests were reported in more than 35 counties and resulted in loss of lives, injuries and significant economic losses due to business disruptions and property damage.
by Samuel Maina and Sharon Nashipae
