KEPSA: Kenya loses Ksh3 billion daily from protests

The losses are linked to property destruction, looting, and vandalism during the anti-government protests that were seen across the nation.
KEPSA stated in a statement on 12 July that “every time the country’s economic engines are shut down out of fear of theft and destruction from people who are taking advantage of the demonstrations, occasions unnecessary losses to the tune of about Ksh3 billion daily.”
The Alliance has issued a warning that the nation cannot support the current political activity due to the difficult economic conditions and the slowing of economic growth.
“Kenya can ill-afford the political activities at hand,” it added. “A faltering economy, reeling from the consequences of a protracted drought, general elections, and economic slowdown last year and worsened by wider global economic issues.”
Just today, vandalism and property destruction were recorded in Nairobi’s Mlolongo and Syokimau neighborhoods.
After boisterous youngsters vandalized a portion of the expressway, drivers were left trapped near the Mlolongo exit. Later on Wednesday afternoon, The Standard claimed that demonstrators had stoned a nearby Quickmart grocery, breaking its windows and causing other damage.
In Kisumu and Nyamira towns, demonstrators blocked roads with bonfires and burned tires as a number of businesses remained closed.
The National Transport and Safety Authority’s order to retest drivers caused matatu operators to suspend operations in various regions of the country, including Nyeri, Kakamega, Nairobi, Migori, and Kisumu.
“Businesses must be shielded from political machinations since they offer goods and services to people from various backgrounds and political affiliations.  Their shutdown is an insult to Kenya’s national economic objectives because they serve as a significant barometer of our economic stability,” according to KEPSA.