September 22, 2025


Nairobi Rises in Solidarity: Calls for Boycott and Stronger Action in Support of Gaza

On a significant day, Sunday, September 21, 2025, Nairobi's Uhuru Park became the focal point of a large-scale protest. Hundreds of Kenyans, led by Muslim leaders and human rights activists, convened to voice their disapproval of Israel's military actions in Gaza and to show solidarity with the Palestinian people suffering under conflict and displacement.

The protest kicked off with a vibrant convoy of motorbikes and cars from Adams Arcade, escalating into a powerful gathering featuring a diverse group of voices. Prominent figures such as Sheikh Jamaludin Osman and Hassan Omar, alongside other religious, political, and human rights leaders, united under a common cause.

Speakers at the event drew haunting parallels between the plight of Palestinians and the dark times of Africa's colonial past, emphasizing the universal nature of the struggle for human rights. Hanifa Aden, a noted human rights defender, poignantly remarked, "This is the most documented genocide ever," highlighting the severity and visibility of the crisis.

The protest also took a firm stance on direct actions. Calls were made for the Kenyan government to take a more pronounced diplomatic approach against Israel and for the public to boycott Israeli-linked products, suggesting that consumer choices could impact the conflict. Sheikh Jamaludin Osman specifically named brands like KFC and Coca-Cola, urging the crowd to consider the implications of their consumption.

In a blend of advocacy and practical support, the gathering doubled as a fundraising event. Contributions were directed towards providing essential supplies to Palestinians and supporting an environmental initiative to plant trees in memory of those lost in the conflict.

The timing of the protest was strategic, coinciding with the opening of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where the Gaza issue is poised to take center stage. With the reported death toll of Palestinians exceeding 65,000 and more than two million residents facing harsh conditions, the urgency and resolve of Nairobi's demonstrators were palpable. They vowed to maintain their advocacy efforts until a lasting resolution and global accountability are achieved.

This display of solidarity in Nairobi not only underscores the global dimension of the Gaza crisis but also reflects the growing international demand for an end to the violence and a sustainable path forward.