[PHOTOS] Traders protest taxes and rising cost of doing business

Traders along Kenyatta Avenue during protests over what they described as rising taxation and the increasing cost of doing business on August 28, 2026. / EZEKIEL AMING’A

Small-scale traders took to the streets of Nairobi to protest what they described as rising taxation and the increasing cost of doing business.

The traders marched through the city carrying banners and placards highlighting the financial pressure facing small businesses.

Some of the signs read, “We’ve had enough! It’s time to fight back!”, “Huge taxes kill small businesses!” and “High costs / low profits / no survival.”

The demonstrators also called for unity, with some placards urging traders to “stand together peacefully and firmly” as they pressed their concerns.

Many protesters blew whistles and vuvuzelas during the march, while others waved Kenyan flags and raised their fists.

The demonstration came amid concerns among traders over taxation, changes to customs valuation and the rising cost of operating businesses.

The traders said the measures were putting pressure on their livelihoods and threatening the survival of small enterprises.

Traders along Kenyatta Avenue during protests over what they described as rising taxation and the increasing cost of doing business on August 28, 2026. / EZEKIEL AMING’A

Security officers along City Hall Way on August 28, 2026. / EZEKIEL AMING’A