For Joseph Mwangi Njeru, life changed forever after the events of June 2024. His son, Kenneth Njeru, a 21-year-old with big dreams, tragically lost his life during that period of nationwide demonstrations.
Kenneth had recently completed his high school education and was waiting to join college. While his family raised funds for his next academic chapter, he took up a welding job his father had found for him—a step that gave hope to his entire household.
As the firstborn in a family of four, Kenneth had promised to use his new job to help uplift his parents and siblings. His father, a Nairobi-based artisan, fondly recalls their last conversation, during which he tried to dissuade his son from joining friends in town. Sadly, that was the last time they spoke.
Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Njeru shared how difficult it has been to provide for his family in the city. The loss of his son, who represented a bright future, was a heartbreaking blow. “We had hope in him. He was hardworking and focused,” he said. What hurt most, he added, was having to use his son’s first wages to cover burial costs.
Since the incident, Mr. Njeru’s wife has developed health complications. With limited income, he now balances caregiving, medical costs, and the school fees of his younger son, who is currently in Form Two. He appeals to the government to support families like his, especially by helping cover school fees for the surviving children.
Another grieving parent, Phoebe Akumu, also shared her story. Her 16-year-old son, Kevin Odhiambo, lost his life on what was meant to be a normal day. He had gone to town to collect a schoolbook from a friend but never returned home.
Ms. Akumu describes Kevin as a quiet, God-fearing boy who loved spending time at church. “He never liked crowds,” she said. Kevin had just started an electrical engineering course and had big plans to uplift his mother and siblings, having been raised in the slums by a single parent.
Ahead of the one-year anniversary of those demonstrations, several affected families joined hands with human rights groups to launch a national petition. The aim is to collect over one million signatures urging authorities to investigate the incidents and support those left behind.
The families gathered at the Kenya National Theatre to share their stories and appeal for justice, compensation, and accountability. Many said they will continue seeking answers until those responsible are held accountable.
One of the organisers, Hussein Khalid from Vocal Africa, expressed concern over what he termed unequal responses to such tragedies. “We’ve seen quick action in some cases, but very little support for ordinary families,” he said.
According to watchdog reports, over 60 people were affected during the protests, but so far, there have been no public disciplinary actions against those involved. The petition now calls for thorough investigations, justice for victims, and financial support for grieving families.
