Trade Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Kinyanjui has sounded the alarm over the economic impact of ongoing protests, warning that violent demonstrations are driving up job losses and undermining investor confidence. She called for a return to stability to protect livelihoods and economic growth.
Highlights:
- CS Kinyanjui links violent protests to rising unemployment
- Economic sectors including retail and transport hit hardest
- Government urges peaceful engagement to safeguard jobs and investment
Main Story:
Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Kinyanjui has expressed deep concern over the economic fallout from recent protests across the country. She said the unrest, particularly where violence and looting have been reported, is forcing many businesses to shut down or scale back, resulting in significant job losses.
According to Kinyanjui, industries such as retail, manufacturing, and public transport have been hit hard. “When shops close, supply chains break, and informal traders can’t operate, the ripple effects touch thousands of households,” she said, stressing that the country’s recovery from recent economic shocks is now at risk.
The Trade CS also pointed to a growing hesitancy among both local and foreign investors due to the instability. She warned that prolonged demonstrations — especially when they turn violent — are likely to discourage future investment, which is critical for job creation and sustainable growth.
Kinyanjui emphasized the need for dialogue and non-violent solutions to the country’s pressing issues, saying, “We can’t fix economic frustrations by destroying the very systems that keep people employed.” She urged youth leaders, civil society, and political players to prioritize peaceful means of advocacy
When protest becomes destruction, the people who suffer most are often those with the least to lose.
