The 35th anniversary of Kenya's historic Saba Saba protests, marked on 7 July 2025, once again saw the nation's streets filled with demonstrators demanding democratic freedoms, police reform, and greater government accountability.
The protests, which tragically resulted in at least 31 deaths and hundreds of arrests, sparked a wave of outrage from Kenyan celebrities, who took to social media to express solidarity, grief, and calls for lasting change.
Several prominent figures used their platforms to condemn the violence and support the protesters.
Veteran musician Nameless, a long-time advocate for justice, posted on Instagram: “Saba Saba 2025 is a cry for our rights. The brutality must stop. #SabaSaba2025 #JusticeNow.”
Internationally acclaimed actress Lupita Nyong'o also weighed in, sharing a sombre Instagram Story featuring a black square with the words: “Kenya’s blood stains our history again. Saba Saba is our fight for freedom. #SabaSaba2025 #KenyaBleeds.” The message reached her nine million followers, amplifying global attention.
Comedian and activist Eric Omondi posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) boldly declaring: “Saba Saba showed our strength! 11 dead, but we won’t back down. #OccupyKenya #SabaSaba2025.” His video was viewed over 150,000 times, inspiring further protest plans.
Singer Akothee broke down in tears during a live Instagram session, stating: “Our people are dying for democracy. Saba Saba 2025 must wake us up. #StopTheKillings.” Her heartfelt plea moved over 25,000 fans.
Media personality Julie Gichuru linked past and present struggles in a detailed thread, writing: “Saba Saba 2025 echoes 1990’s fight.
From Ojwang to today, we demand accountability.” Her petition for reform gathered over 15,000 signatures.
The artistic community also rose to the occasion. Rapper Khaligraph Jones dropped a hard-hitting freestyle: “Saba Saba, blood on the streets / We rise for justice, never retreat.”
Meanwhile, comedian Chipukeezy used satire to highlight the protests in an Instagram reel, captioned: “Time to laugh or fight? We choose fight!”
Award-winning rapper Octopizzo, known for his social activism, tweeted: “Our brothers and sisters deserve dignity, not bullets. Saba Saba is not just a date—it’s a movement.”
Bien-Aimé Baraza of Sauti Sol echoed this on Instagram: “They can silence a few, but they can’t kill the spirit of Saba Saba. Kenya must rise.”
Rapper King Kaka released a powerful spoken word piece, “Kilio cha Saba Saba”, reflecting on Kenya’s resilience amidst oppression.
Media personality Azziad Nasenya urged her young followers to focus on humanity over politics, while Afro-pop group Elani shared an acoustic version of “Niko Sawa” in tribute to those lost.
Activist Makena Njeri highlighted the protests as part of the broader struggle for equality, while city pastor Rev Lucy Natasha offered prayers for national healing.
Gospel star Size 8 and her husband DJ Mo provided spiritual and musical comfort, with DJ Mo dedicating a live session to the protesters.
Globally, Kenyan-American actor Edi Gathegi and singer Victoria Kimani shared messages of solidarity.
British actor Idris Elba, with strong Kenyan ties, tweeted: “Saba Saba 2025 shows Kenya’s spirit. Stand strong!”
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