What began as a peaceful anti-government demonstration turned into a nightmare for Nairobi’s business community. On June 25, as protests against the Finance Bill intensified, widespread looting broke out across the city, leaving dozens of shops ransacked and traders counting devastating losses.
Highlights
- Shops and supermarkets in Nairobi CBD were looted during protests.
- Business owners report losses ranging from thousands to millions.
- Some traders shut down temporarily to avoid further damage.
- Many affected businesses lacked insurance coverage.
- Calls grow for better protection of property during public demonstrations.
Main Story
In the midst of the anti-Finance Bill demonstrations on June 25, chaos erupted in Nairobi’s central business district as looters broke into shops, supermarkets, and stalls. Retailers around Moi Avenue, Tom Mboya Street, and Mfangano Lane were hit the hardest. Opportunistic looters took advantage of the unrest, making away with electronics, groceries, clothing, and cosmetics.
Traders and business owners say they are reeling from the destruction. Some, like electronics seller Patrick Ndung’u, estimate losses of over KSh 500,000. Others, including supermarket owners and boutique operators, say their entire stock was wiped out in minutes. For many, the losses are not just material — they threaten the survival of long-established businesses.
In response to the violence, several business owners closed early or remained shut for days after the incident. Areas like RNG Plaza, Sunbeam Mall, and Cianda Market fell silent as traders assessed the damage and reinforced security. Nairobi’s usually bustling shopping corridors remained eerily quiet amid fears of repeat looting.
The financial blow is even more severe for those without insurance. A large number of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operate without cover for theft or damage, meaning their recovery now depends solely on personal savings or loans — a hard ask in an already strained economy.
Business owners are now demanding tighter security measures during protests and a more coordinated response from law enforcement. While many support the right to demonstrate, they argue that peaceful protests must be safeguarded from criminal opportunists who hijack the moment.
As the dust settles on the June 25 protests, one thing is clear — the right to protest must not come at the price of another’s livelihood.
