The Nairobi business community reportedly faced losses exceeding Sh3 billion due to widespread looting and vandalism in the Central Business District (CBD) over the past three weeks, according to officials.
Wilfred Kamau, chairman of the community, strongly denounced the destruction and theft that swept through the city. He attributed these incidents to organized criminals who exploited what began as peaceful demonstrations by Gen Z protestors. Kamau highlighted the coordinated nature of the chaos observed on television and in the city streets, suggesting a deliberate effort to cause disruption.
Accusing certain politicians of orchestrating these acts to discredit Gen Z demonstrators, Kamau issued a stern warning, stating, “We know you. Insiders have informed us that they were paid to destroy businesses. We will hold you accountable.”
The vandalism primarily affected downtown Nairobi, an area not typically associated with Gen Z demonstrations, which predominantly occur in central parts of the city. Kamau challenged the narrative implicating young demonstrators, questioning how they could be responsible for such extensive damage in areas they do not frequent.
Criticism was also directed at the police and government for their slow response to the incidents. The community cited instances where law enforcement took over three hours to intervene during looting at establishments like Naivas and other supermarkets.
Benedicta Njeri, a local business owner, expressed her anguish over the losses incurred during the demonstrations. “I lost over Sh400,000 on Tuesday. I am new to business in Nairobi, having been here only six months, and now everything is gone,” she lamented. Njeri had recently opened a clothing shop on Moi Avenue, hoping to build a better life in the city, only to face devastation from the recent events.
