Kenya is still reeling from the massive protests that gripped the nation in June 2025, as the youth ( Gen Z)—took to the streets to commemorate the anti finance bill of 2024 as well as the death of Kenyan teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang. The demonstrations, which began as peaceful marches, quickly escalated into widespread unrest, resulting in loss of lives, looting of business,destruction of property, and deep economic disruptions.
Organized largely by Kenya’s Gen Z through social media platforms, the June protests drew global attention. From Nairobi to Embu , Mombasa, Eldoret, and even remote towns in 27 Counties, thousands marched demanding transparency, accountability, and economic justice. However the protests were invaded by goons who went after businesses in CBD Nairobi where items of millions were stolen ,from shops, supermarkets and other business entities.
The heavy-handed response by security forces sparked national outrage, with civil society groups reporting that over 40 people lost their lives, Bonface Kariuki sparkling the headlines in the media after being shot by police while hawking masks as hundreds were injured during the confrontation.Additionally, police were not left behind as others survived serious injuries while dealing with the protesters with police vehicles being burnt as well as police stations.
Economically, the aftermath is proving costly. The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) estimates that businesses lost more than Ksh 12 billion in the final two weeks of June alone. Many small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly in urban centers, were forced to close temporarily due to looting, curfews, or fear of violence. This disruption also affected supply chains and led to job losses, particularly in the informal sector which forms the backbone of Kenya’s economy.
The Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) recorded a sharp decline in investor confidence during the protests, with foreign investors pulling out approximately Ksh 6 billion in the month. The shilling weakened against major currencies, inflation ticked upward, and tourism—one of the country’s major revenue streams—suffered significant cancellations and travel advisories.
Beyond the economic fallout, the protests have triggered a political awakening. Young Kenyans, long disengaged from mainstream politics, demonstrated an unprecedented level of civic engagement. For many, this marked their first participation in nationwide activism—united not by ethnicity or party loyalty, but by a shared frustration with systemic inequality, joblessness, and rising costs of living.
President William Ruto’s administration has since been criticizing the opposition for funding the protests majorly blaming the ex Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, however Ruto has constantly initiated dialogue forums with youths and civil society groups. However, critics argue that deeper reforms are needed to address the root causes of discontent, including unemployment, public debt, and corruption.
Economists warn that unless the government reassures both investors and the public through tangible action, the long-term impact of the June 2025 protests could hinder recovery efforts. The country’s debt crisis remains unresolved, and fiscal reforms must now balance public demands with economic realities.
As Kenya moves forward, the events of June 2025 may well be remembered as a turning point—a moment when the youth found their voice and forced the nation to reckon with its future. The challenge now is turning that momentum into meaningful change.
