Police teargas protestors playing football in Nairobi CBD
By Mabonga Makhanu, June 25, 2025With the Gen Z June 25 protests now gaining momentum, protestors have taken their demonstrations to a whole new level—playing football in the CBD.
While enjoying their game amid the demos, the protestors’ match was abruptly disrupted by police who were manning the streets.
A tear gas canister was fired at them, forcing them to disperse and abandon their ball.
Police are now working around the clock to prevent any buildup of protestors, with even small groups being dispersed using tear gas.
Despite the heavy police presence and major roads being blocked, protestors have been seen entering the city in their thousands.
Other funny scenes
Another memorable moment captured a protester boldly returning a tear gas canister to the police before breaking into a spirited dance—a cheeky display that went viral for its defiance and flair.
On the same day, marchers carried a toy missile through the CBD, a quirky symbol that sparked amusement and curiosity among both onlookers and online audiences. Additionally, a man wielding a staff earned the nickname “Musa” (Moses) as the crowd hyped him up, chanting and likening him to the biblical leader, adding a humorous twist to the march.
It is now a running battle as police use tear gas canisters to disperse protestors along Kimathi Street in Nairobi’s CBD.
Protesters are seen fleeing to avoid the wrath of anti-riot police officers.
Business activities along the street have also been crippled, with police filling the area and clouds of tear gas smoke filling the air.
As of 11:14 am on June 25, 2025, Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) is experiencing heightened tension as protests marking the first anniversary of the 2024 Gen Z-led anti-Finance Bill demonstrations flare up.
Current situation in the CBD
Police have sealed off key access roads, including Valley Road, Ngong Road, Haile Selassie Avenue, and Globe Roundabout, with Parliament Road barricaded using razor-wire fencing. A heavy security presence, including officers on horseback, has been deployed to prevent gatherings.
The primary motive behind the march was to proceed to Parliament, where protesters had planned to lay wreaths and mark the day in honour of all those who lost their lives in the clamour for Kenya’s good governance.