Nigerian-American music star Davido has expressed solidarity with the people of Kenya following a wave of nationwide anti-government demonstrations. Taking to his social media pages, the globally acclaimed singer kept his message short but powerful: “Peace and love to Kenya.”
Known for using his platform to speak out on political and social issues across Africa, Davido’s message comes in the wake of intense protests that saw thousands of mostly young Kenyans pour into the streets, demanding justice, transparency, and reforms.
The protests, which spanned at least 23 counties, were held in memory of those killed in last year’s demonstrations particularly the over 60 youths who lost their lives when protesters stormed Parliament in an unprecedented act of civil defiance. One year later, the mood in the streets remains defiant, with fresh demands for accountability and an end to what many describe as entrenched impunity within government systems.
According to reports from various civil society groups including the Law Society of Kenya, the Police Reforms Working Group, and the Kenya Medical Association, at least eight lives were lost during the latest protests. Over 400 people are reported to have sustained injuries, 83 of whom required specialized medical attention. Among those injured were also police officers.
“Eight protesters were treated for gunshot wounds,” the groups noted. “Three of the injured are police officers. While these numbers are based on verified medical reports and human rights monitoring, the actual toll may take longer to confirm.”
From Nairobi and Mombasa to Kisumu, Eldoret, and smaller towns like Kitengela, Nyeri, and Thika, the country was gripped by scenes of chaos. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces played out on the streets, as tear gas filled the air and the sound of live rounds echoed across city blocks. Businesses shut down and public transport came to a standstill in many areas.
Despite the heavy-handed police response, the youth-led protests showed no signs of backing down amplifying the voices of a generation increasingly unwilling to remain silent in the face of social and economic injustices.
Davido, who has performed in Kenya multiple times most recently in 2024 joins a growing list of African voices calling for peace, unity, and justice in the country.
