[PHOTOS] Scenes from Nairobi’s fuel protest

What began as a solemn show of patriotism quickly turned into an unusual spectacle in the heart of Nairobi, a mix of protest, play, and pent-up frustration.

On Tuesday morning, a group of demonstrators gathered near the Kenya National Archives, their voices rising in unison as they sang the national anthem.

Moments later, the tone shifted. A football appeared, and the crowd, young men and women alike, burst into a spontaneous match, chasing the ball across the open space with no teams, no goalposts, and no rules.

Cup pressure peaks as Shabana host Kenya Police in blockbuster quarter-final Football

Upper Hill coach Walgwe unperturbed despite drawing giants in Prescott Cup group phase Rugby

The demonstrations were part of wider protests across the city, driven by growing public outrage over rising fuel prices and the broader cost of living.

Organised by a coalition of Gen Z activists alongside opposition-linked groups, the protests sought to pressure authorities to address the economic strain facing many households.

The unrest follows the latest price review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which saw sharp increases in fuel costs for the April–May cycle. Super petrol rose by Sh28.69, while diesel went up by Sh40.30—adjustments that have triggered widespread backlash.

As the protests unfolded, police maintained a heavy presence in parts of the central business district.

At least 11 suspected protesters have been arrested and detained, although authorities did not immediately disclose the charges they may face.