Business as usual in Kisumu on June 25 anniversary

St. Joseph Starlets Murang’a Crowned New Champions as LYSA Defends Central Regional Title Sports

200 golfers set for NCBA Golf Series action at Kiambu Golf

Business activities continued largely uninterrupted in Kisumu on Thursday as the country marked the first anniversary of the June 25, 2024 protests.

Many called for peaceful civic engagement and rejected demonstrations that could lead to loss of life and destruction of property.

Across the city, traders opened their shops, public transport operated normally, and customers went about their daily activities despite heightened attention on commemorative activities taking place in different parts of the country.

While some business owners delayed opening their premises in the morning to monitor the situation, many expressed optimism that Kisumu would remain calm throughout the day.

At Kondele, Kibuye, Oginga Odinga Street and other major business centres, shops gradually opened as residents assessed developments across the country.

Several traders said they had chosen to remain open because they did not anticipate any violence in the city.

“We have learnT from previous experiences. We do not want protests that lead to deaths, injuries and destruction of businesses. People have a right to express themselves, but it should be done peacefully,” said John Oywa a trader in Kisumu's central business district.

Another business owner Dominic Mark who opened his shop later in the morning said he had initially feared possible unrest but became more confident after observing the calm situation in the city.

“Some of us waited to see how the morning would unfold. If everything remains peaceful, business must continue because people depend on daily income,” he said.

Public service vehicles continued operating on major routes, while food vendors, retail shops and other small enterprises remained active.

A few businesses, however, kept their doors closed as a precautionary measure, with owners saying they preferred to wait until later in the day before resuming operations.

Residents interviewed said they hoped the anniversary would serve as a moment of reflection rather than confrontation.

They said while the 2024 protests highlighted important concerns among young people, future engagement should prioritize dialogue and peaceful participation to avoid loss of life.

Others pointed to ongoing economic challenges, saying stability is crucial for businesses struggling to recover and grow.

As the day progressed, Kisumu remained largely peaceful, with commercial activities continuing in most parts of the city.

Residents expressed hope that the city would maintain its calm atmosphere and demonstrate that civic expression and economic activity can coexist without violence or destruction.