Canada has issued a travel advisory to its citizens over the planned demonstrations expected to happen on Monday, July 7, 2025.
In its notice, the Canadian embassy advised its citizens that demonstrations have turned violent in the past, and that shootings have occurred, resulting in several casualties.
“Demonstrations are scheduled to take place in Nairobi across Kenya on July 7, 2025. Gatherings and demonstrations may also occur before or after this date,” the advisory reads in part.
Traffic disruptions
“Recent demonstrations have been violent, with incidents of looting and shootings resulting in casualties. Demonstrations can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.”
They equally stated that telecommunications services could be shut down during the protest, resulting in further uncertainty in the country.
“Telecommunications and Internet access may also be disrupted. Authorities may impose curfews and restrict movement without notice,” the notice reads.
The elaborate advisory went ahead to observe that Kenya may experience blackouts during the protest, noting that this may increase the chances of crime happening.
Terrorism risks
The advisory further warned Canadian nationals against travelling to the regions of Mandera, Wajir and Garissa, citing the risk of terrorism.
In the last protest on June 25, 2025, at least 19 people were killed. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has reported that over 400 people, including protesters, police officers, and journalists, sustained injuries during the demonstrations.
The protests, which saw thousands take to the streets, were largely organised by youth activists to remember the more than 60 lives lost in the June 25, 2024, anti-Finance Bill demonstrations and to voice ongoing concerns about rising living costs and government policies.
Reports from medical facilities corroborate the high number of injuries. Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, the capital’s main hospital, admitted at least 107 injured individuals, with “most with gunshot wounds” from either rubber bullets or live rounds.
Several police stations were also torched, with government buildings and vehicles being vandalised in Kikuyu constituency, by what authorities believe were goons hired by a section of political leaders.
