Business owners in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) are reeling from massive losses following widespread looting and destruction during anti-government demonstrations on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. What began as a peaceful protest quickly turned chaotic when criminals infiltrated the crowds, targeting businesses along key streets.
A spot check revealed extensive damage, particularly along Moi Avenue, where several shops were broken into, windows smashed, and goods looted. Shop owners who had hoped to recover from previous economic shocks now face an uncertain future.
“This is wrong. They broke the door and entered the shops. I have lost everything. It’s so unfortunate,” said Tom Kamau, a visibly distraught shop owner whose business was among those ransacked.
The destruction was not limited to Moi Avenue. At the busy OTC area, Quickmart and nearby shops were also looted, while a building housing the Moonstar Hotel was set ablaze. Smoke continued to rise from the charred structure on Thursday morning, a haunting reminder of the night’s destruction.
Susan Wanjiru, a mobile phone dealer at OTC, estimated her losses at over Sh800,000. “I just restocked days ago. I didn’t know this would happen. I don’t know where to start from,” she said tearfully.
Despite the turmoil, business and transport activities resumed by Thursday, June 26, though many traders remained cautious.
The protests, which took place across Nairobi and other counties, marked the anniversary of the 2024 youth-led uprising that challenged the government’s approach to taxation and public spending. Demonstrators returned to the streets with renewed demands for justice, transparency, and economic reform.
While the movement’s message resonates with many Kenyans frustrated by the high cost of living, the violence and criminal activities that marred the protests have sparked concern. Many business owners now call on the government and protest organizers to ensure that future demonstrations remain peaceful and do not endanger livelihoods.
As the country reflects on the events, a deeper question emerges how can Kenya balance the right to protest with the need to protect businesses and public safety?
