#protests

Police in Nairobi have sealed off key roads in anticipation of protests organized by Generation Z activists. The demonstrators are calling for justice for over 80 individuals who lost their lives during the 2024 demonstrations and last year's anniversary protests.

Police have set up roadblocks on several roads leading into the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD), restricting access for both private and public service vehicles. This action comes ahead of planned protests to commemorate the Gen Z anniversary.

Tebogo Khaas argues that the upcoming protests on June 30 are driven by broader issues beyond immigration policy. He emphasizes that citizens are frustrated with the selective enforcement of laws, where some forms of lawlessness are tolerated while others face severe state response, highlighting a perceived inconsistency in governance.

Kenya has passed a controversial bill two years after protests led by the Gen Z movement resulted in violence and fatalities. The legislation has sparked debate and concern among various groups regarding its implications and the circumstances surrounding its approval, according to Al Jazeera.

Santaco has announced that taxis will continue to operate normally on June 30, despite planned protests and marches related to immigration issues. This decision comes in support of the South African Police Service's call to maintain taxi services during the demonstrations.

In Kisumu, normal business activities persisted with public transport running smoothly, despite heightened police presence in various areas. This comes as Nairobi experiences a significant security lockdown in anticipation of memorial protests related to Gen Z.

On June 25, 2026, Nairobi experienced significant disruptions as police established roadblocks in anticipation of protests. The city center was notably quiet, with many businesses closed and Kenyatta Avenue largely deserted, featuring only a few pedestrians and vehicles. This heightened security presence was part of efforts to manage the situation ahead of the planned demonstrations, according to Eastleigh Voice.

Ahead of planned Gen Z memorial protests, heavy police presence and barbed wire barriers have been deployed around sections of Parliament and nearby access roads in Nairobi, significantly restricting movement within parts of the Central Business District, according to Capital FM.

Geordin Hill-Lewis has publicly condemned xenophobia and urged authorities to take action to protect immigrants who are facing hostility from protesters. His statements highlight the need for safeguarding the rights and safety of immigrant communities in the face of rising tensions.

Many businesses in Nairobi's Central Business District remained closed due to concerns over potential looting amid protests organized by Gen Z. A morning check by Capital FM revealed that most shops had not opened, and there was a significant police presence in various key areas of the city.

The protests, which originated as a digital campaign, evolved into one of the largest youth-led demonstrations in Kenya's recent history. This movement was characterized by its lack of clear political sponsors, hired crowds, or ethnic divisions, as young Kenyans utilized social media to organize and advocate for their demands.

Ahead of the June 25 protests, major roads in Kenya have been blocked and there is a heavy police presence, creating a tense atmosphere. The protests are organized by Gen Z activists, civil society groups, and families of victims to commemorate the two-year anniversary of the 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations, which resulted in the deaths of numerous Kenyan youth.

Protests organized by Generation Z are anticipated to occur across major Kenyan towns such as Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret. These demonstrations are primarily being mobilized through social media platforms.

Ahead of the planned protests on 30 June, South African Minister of Police and Community Safety, Ronald Cachalia, has announced measures to enhance security in various sectors. Increased security will focus on businesses, transport routes, and public facilities to ensure safety during the demonstrations.

As the June 30 anti-immigration protests approach, foreign nationals and community leaders in Cape Town express concerns for their safety, urging for calm amidst rising tensions. Law enforcement agencies are preparing for possible unrest, highlighting the anxiety within the community, according to IOL.

Security agencies in Kenya have increased surveillance of politicians, student leaders, activists, and community organizers in anticipation of planned protests on June 25. This heightened monitoring comes amid concerns about possible disruptions to transport networks, businesses, and economic activities across various regions of the country. Intelligence assessments reviewed by Business Today indicate that authorities are closely observing mobilization efforts related to the demonstrations.

Two years after significant protests by Gen Z that led to the government's withdrawal of the 2024 Finance Bill, the effects are still evident, particularly in taxation, economic policies, and national politics. Gen Z has demonstrated that the youth voice can influence government policies and major national decisions. However, many Kenyans continue to face high living costs and the aftermath of the protests, indicating that their struggles are not over. Concerns within the government were noted recently as youth unrest persists.

Kenya commemorated the second anniversary of the Gen Z protests that began in 2024, which were sparked by youth opposition to taxes, corruption, and inequality. On this occasion, families of victims from the protests called for justice, reflecting on the impact of government crackdowns during the demonstrations.

Some Malawian nationals residing in Durban have expressed happiness about returning to their home country. Their departure coincides with increasing anti-immigration protests in various regions of South Africa, which have raised concerns among foreign nationals.

George Aladwa, the ODM Nairobi County Chair and Makadara MP, announced that ODM supporters will not participate in the upcoming Gen Z protests scheduled for Thursday. He emphasized the party's support for President William Ruto's administration following a coalition agreement, stating that protests do not address the challenges facing Kenyans. Aladwa called for peace, job creation, business opportunities, and development instead of chaos and destruction.