As Kenya marks the anniversary of the historic Saba Saba Day of Democracy today, schools across major towns have closed their doors, citing safety concerns amid fears of unrest linked to planned protests. The move reflects broader anxieties gripping the country, especially in urban centres such as Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.
While the government has maintained that “Monday is not a public holiday”, with Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku directing all civil servants to report to work without fail, many private institutions have opted for caution.
A number of schools in the affected towns quietly informed parents over the weekend that learners should remain at home on 7 July. The schools cited heightened risk and the need to protect children and staff from possible disruption or harm. The closures come against the backdrop of increased security measures and visible unease in central business districts.
