As the nationwide Saba Saba protests gain momentum, the Ministry of Trade has issued a dire warning about the potential economic fallout if the unrest persists.
In a strongly worded statement, Trade Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano cautioned that the escalating demonstrations could trigger an investor exodus and destabilize Kenya’s fragile economic recovery.
The Saba Saba protests, named after the historic July 7, 1990, demonstrations for multiparty democracy, have returned with renewed vigor, led largely by disillusioned youth and civil society groups demanding accountability, economic reforms, and an end to government excesses.
What began as a movement against the now-withdrawn Finance Bill 2024 has quickly evolved into a broader pushback against political elitism and institutional mistrust.
According to the Ministry, the disruption to businesses in key urban centers, vandalism of public property, and paralyzed transport networks are raising red flags among foreign investors.
“There is growing concern from both local and international stakeholders. If this situation continues, we risk losing investor confidence, which will impact job creation, trade flows, and economic stability,” read the statement.
Several multinational firms have reportedly paused operations in Nairobi’s CBD, citing uncertainty and security risks. The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) echoed the Ministry’s concerns, urging for dialogue and political restraint before irreversible economic damage occurs.
However, protest leaders and youth organizers argue that the demonstrations are a result of the same economic despair the government claims to protect. “You can’t lecture us about the economy when we can’t afford basic food, fees, or healthcare. We are protesting to survive,” said one Gen Z protester in Nairobi.
As the nation stands at a crossroads between civic unrest and economic stability, one thing is clear: the Saba Saba movement has reawakened Kenya’s protest spirit, and the government must act swiftly to address the root causes or risk deeper economic and political turbulence.
