NAIROBI, Kenya – A protester sustained serious injuries on Wednesday morning after a tear gas canister reportedly exploded in his hand during demonstrations marking the first anniversary of the 2024 Gen Z protests.
Eyewitnesses say the incident occurred along Kenyatta Avenue in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), where anti-riot police had fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators.
It is believed the protester may have been attempting to throw the canister back at police when it detonated, causing severe injuries.
Well-wishers at the scene quickly rushed the injured individual to hospital. His condition remains unknown at the time of publication.
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The protests, which began early Wednesday, have rapidly gained momentum in Nairobi and other parts of the country as youth-led demonstrators take to the streets to honour those killed during last year’s anti-Finance Bill protests and to call for justice, accountability, and police reform.
Security forces have sealed off key roads leading into the CBD, forcing thousands of Nairobi residents to walk long distances into the city.
Most public service vehicles have been kept out of the city centre, and the usually bustling streets are largely deserted. Businesses remained shuttered, with shopkeepers wary of potential unrest.
A thick cloud of tear gas hung over parts of Kenyatta Avenue by mid-morning, as police in full riot gear stood guard near Parliament and other government installations.
Despite the heavy police presence, protest organisers say the demonstrations are meant to be peaceful. However, tensions remain high amid reports of isolated confrontations in parts of the capital.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the injured protester.
Wednesday’s protests are part of a broader national mobilisation by Gen Z activists seeking justice for the 63 young people reportedly killed during last year’s protests.
Civil society groups and opposition leaders have also joined calls for an independent investigation into the deaths and a review of police conduct during public demonstrations.
