In a powerful resurgence of the spirit that defined the Saba Saba movement, Generation Z is organising a concert at Uhuru Park to honour their fallen peers in the anti-tax protests.
The event, dubbed Shujaaz Memorial Concert, will run from 12 pm to 7 pm, serving as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and democracy in Kenya.
Boniface Mwangi, one of the organisers, said the event is not only a tribute but also a rallying cry, drawing parallels between the current fight against government corruption and repression, and the historic Saba Saba movement of the 1990s.
“We are organising a concert on Sunday to honour those who passed away the previous week. It will reflect the spirit of Saba Saba day.
‘‘It will be peaceful, and the Nairobi County government has given us a permit to use the grounds, so we urge you all to come out in large numbers,” said Boniface Mwangi.
July 7 is a historical day for Kenya. It is commemorated yearly to relinquish memories of July 7, 1990, when nationwide protests took place in Kenya to demand multi-party democracy.
On the historic day, Kenya witnessed the largest nationwide protests, which were led by leaders including Kenneth Matiba and Charles Rubia.
The 2024 Saba Saba Day has changed focus as organizers now dedicate it to honouring Kenyans lost in the recent anti-government demonstrations.
According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), 39 people were killed in the nationwide protests that occurred from June 18 to July 1, 2024.
In its report, KNCHR said 32 were abductions and 627 arrests of protesters.
