The Nairobi Expressway, a vital artery linking Nairobi to Mombasa Road, was eerily deserted on Monday morning as Saba Saba protests disrupted normalcy in the capital and its outskirts. A spot check by The Star revealed a complete absence of vehicles on the normally busy toll road, while nearby Mombasa Road had only light traffic, with most public service vehicles operating at minimal passenger capacity.
Heavy police presence was noted at key points along the Expressway, particularly in Mlolongo, where armed officers manned entry and exit routes to deter any possible unrest. The heightened security was mirrored across towns such as Kitengela, Machakos, Emali, and Matuu, where police patrols intensified as a precaution against protest-related violence.
In Mlolongo, the atmosphere was tense yet calm. Several businesses remained closed, and some shop owners hired young men armed with clubs to guard their premises — a tactic that has been observed during past anti-government demonstrations. Streets that are typically abuzz with activity were unusually quiet, with only a few pedestrians visible.
The protests also affected the Nairobi–Namanga Road, where the usual vehicular traffic dwindled significantly. However, bodaboda operators filled the gap, ferrying stranded commuters at hiked fares due to increased demand. Their presence was especially notable as many residents relied on them to navigate areas affected by transport disruptions.
Industrial operations were also hampered, particularly along Mombasa Road, where numerous factories and offices shut down operations for the day. Most workers remained indoors amid fears of chaos. Additionally, several private schools in Kajiado and Machakos counties directed parents to keep their children at home due to safety concerns.
Residents expressed frustration over the disruptions. “The situation has interfered with my livelihood. I don’t know what to do,” said a Mlolongo resident, underscoring the protest’s impact on daily life.
The Saba Saba protests, rooted in calls for political reforms and better governance, have once again laid bare the country’s social and economic vulnerabilities during times of civil unrest. As the nation watches developments unfold, many hope for a swift return to normalcy.
