Kenya Braces for 'Nane Nane' Protests as Economic Concerns Mount

As Kenya approaches the highly anticipated 'Nane Nane' demonstrations on August 8, 2024, the nation braces for what could be the largest clash yet between protesters and government forces.

These upcoming protests emerge against a backdrop of mounting concerns over the economic ramifications of persistent unrest. On August 6, Dr Korir Sing'oei, the Principal Secretary of Foreign Affairs, issued a statement on social media platform X, drawing a provocative comparison between violent protests and pollution. He argues for stringent regulation of these demonstrations, asserting that the private sector bears the brunt of the disruptions caused by ongoing civil unrest.

Sing'oei contends that protesters do not internalize the costs of their actions, instead transferring the burden to businesses and the broader economy. His statement reflects the government's growing frustration with the protests that have persisted since June. The economic impact of this political instability is becoming increasingly evident. A recent report reveals that Kenya's private sector has experienced its slowest job growth since January 2024. This economic deceleration reflects a wider atmosphere of uncertainty, amplified by the ongoing political turmoil.

The monthly survey conducted by Stanbic Kenya and S&P Global paints a sombre picture of the current economic landscape, with businesses reluctant to invest and consumer spending in decline. The Stanbic Kenya Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) has dropped to 43.1 in July from 47.2 in June, indicating a contraction in private sector activity for the second consecutive month. This decline highlights the substantial disruptions caused by the protests. New orders and output have plummeted to their lowest levels since April 2021, demonstrating the tangible effects of the unrest on economic activity. While companies continue to increase employment, the pace has slowed significantly, reaching its lowest point in a seven-month streak of rising staffing levels.

The protests have impacted various sectors of the economy, including agriculture, construction, wholesale and retail, services, and mining. However, amidst this gloomy outlook, the manufacturing industry has shown a slight increase, offering a glimmer of hope in an otherwise challenging economic environment. The upcoming protests, organized by the Gen Z movement under the #NaneNanematch banner, aim to maintain pressure for substantial changes.

While event coordinators have pledged a peaceful demonstration, they have also warned against any attempts to disrupt the protest. The persistent unrest has already catalyzed significant shifts, including the withdrawal of the controversial Finance Bill 2024, political restructuring, and a cabinet reshuffle.