Most businesses remained closed in Nairobi City’s Central Business District(CBD) on Thursday August 8, 2024 as police lobbed teargas at protesters.

Police mounted roadblocks on major roads leading to the CBD including Waiyaki Way, Thika Road and Jogoo roads.

This is due to the planned Nane Nane protests against the Kenya Kwanza government by Kenyan youth, mostly Gen Zs.

Retail shops including supermarkets, clothes outlets, phone shops and eateries are the most affected businesses.

Several businesses suffered the most during previous protests due to looting by the alleged hired goons.

Along Ronald Ngala Street, almost all shops remained closed as security guards with wooden clubs(rungus) are seen guarding them.

Public transport, especially the matatu sector has also been affected as few vehicles can be seen entering the city centre with caution and few are parked at the matatu stages.

Most of the public service vehicle owners had not allowed their matatus to reach the CBD for fear of protests.

At the same time, Nairobi’s main streets had a smaller population as many city dwellers decided to stay home.

The government had on Wednesday asked Nairobi residents to avoid going to places where there is likelihood of protests. 

At the same time, Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli in a press conference, urged city residents to keep away from potential areas that are likely to experience protests.

A spot check at the city’s bus stations by TV47 indicated little activity as many travelers feared traveling outside Nairobi for fear of protests.

At about 10:30 am, police started hurling teargas to disperse protesters and journalists who were gathering.

There is tension in various parts of the Capital city as gunshots and teargas canister explosions can be heard in the downtown streets.