Nigerian-American music star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has sent a heartfelt message to Kenyans following the recent wave of anti-government protests that rocked the country.
In a brief but powerful message shared across his social media platforms, the singer called for calm and unity, stating:
“Peace and love to Kenya.”
Davido, a renowned songwriter and record producer, is known for using his platform to speak out on social and political issues not just in Nigeria but across the African continent. He has visited Kenya at least twice—first in 2015 and again in 2024.
His message came in the wake of disturbing reports by various civil society organizations, including the Law Society of Kenya, Police Reforms Working Group, and the Kenya Medical Association, which confirmed that at least eight protesters had died during the demonstrations.
The reports also indicated that over 400 individuals were injured, with 83 requiring specialized treatment.
“At least eight protesters have been treated for gunshot wounds. Three of the injured are police officers. While these figures are confirmed by medics and human rights defenders, sadly, the exact figures may only be known in the course of time,” one report stated.
The protests, which took place on Tuesday, saw participation from at least 23 counties, with thousands of mostly young people taking to the streets to demand justice, transparency, and government accountability.
This nationwide movement was also held in remembrance of over 60 young people who lost their lives in similar protests last year, which famously escalated when demonstrators stormed Parliament in a historic show of defiance.
From Nairobi to Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, Kitengela, Nyeri, and Thika, business operations came to a standstill as protesters clashed with police forces. Demonstrators lit bonfires, barricaded roads, and engaged in fierce confrontations with officers, who reportedly responded with excessive force, including tear gas and live bullets.
Other affected areas included Kakamega, Busia, Lamu, Taita Taveta, Kericho, Kisii, Laikipia, Uasin Gishu, Narok, Embu, Nyandarua, Homa Bay, Meru, and Makueni.
The demonstrations are widely seen as a reflection of growing frustration among Kenya’s youth over issues such as police brutality, corruption, and economic hardship. Davido’s message of peace adds to the chorus of international voices acknowledging the courage and plight of Kenyan protesters.
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