Business activities resumed normally in Kisumu on Monday, July 7, 2025 as the country commemorated Saba Saba, amid calls for nationwide protests.
A few shops remained closed but most businesses continued with usual activities as Kisumu city remained calm.
Public transport was available, though in limited numbers, and some streets appeared not busy as usual.
Despite fears of possible unrest, there were no demonstrations in Kisumu.
Locals chose to go about their day peacefully, with many expressing a desire to honour the historical significance of Saba Saba without engaging in protests.
“We know what Saba Saba is, what it means, and what happened in 1990,” said Mark James, a trader.
“Demos are for what, unless someone has ulterior motives? As Kisumu people, we are for peace,” he added.
However, major supermarkets across Kisumu city remained open, though some had three police officers stationed nearby as a precaution.
At the same time, banks and government offices remained operational.
Most business operators in the lakeside city expressed confidence to open their stalls because of the peace that prevailed during the June 25, 2025 protests.
