- The Shujaaz memorial concert, held at Uhuru Park in Nairobi on July 7, 2024, was a significant event that brought together Kenyans in a powerful display of unity and remembrance.
- The concert was primarily organised to honour all the fallen heroes during the recent anti-government protests.
- The majority of those in attendance were Gen Z's and Millenials who flocked Uhuru Park dressed in black and waving Kenyans flags to honour those killed.
- A powerful visual tribute of makeshift white crosses bearing the names of Kenyans who died was displayed in the park. They did not leave it there but adorned the crosses with Kenyan flags.
The Shujaaz memorial concert, held at Uhuru Park Nairobi on July 7, 2024, was a significant event that brought together Kenyans in a powerful display of unity and remembrance.
The concert was primarily organised to honour all the fallen heroes during the recent anti-government protests, which coincide with the historical Saba Saba day—a commemoration of July 7, 1990 protests that agitated for multi-party democracy.
The majority of those in attendance were the Gen Z's and Millenials who flocked Uhuru Park dressed in black and waving Kenyans flags to honour those killed.
Governor Johnson Sakaja played a crucial role in making the event possible. Despite concerns about the park being an active crime scene following the recent protests, Sakaja approved the concert, highlighting the importance of Kenyans expressing themselves.
The newly renovated Uhuru Park was reopened earlier this year following a comprehensive two-year renovation, providing a beautiful venue for the event. Security was also beefed up in the city's Central Business District (CBD) before the concert.
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A powerful visual tribute of makeshift white crosses bearing the names of Kenyans who died was displayed in the park. They did not leave it there but adorned the crosses with Kenyan flags.
While the state claims that 25 people have been killed and 400 have been injured, human rights groups believe the numbers are higher. According to the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), at least 43 people were killed during the demonstrations, and over 600 were injured to varying degrees.
The atmosphere was a blend of melancholic reflections embodying the resilience and spirit of Kenyans.
The concert saw a mix of performances from Kenyan artists and other activists on the frontline in the anti-government demos. They all continued to rally against bad leadership and corruption, championing for better leadership. Some renowned artists in attendance were Khaligraph Jones, Bien, Fena, Nameless, Octopizzo, Charisma, Juliani, Eric Wainaina, Sarabi Band, Graffiti Band, Mutoria and DJ Moh.
Famous social activist Hanifa Adan, also known on social media as' HoneyFarsadi', graced the event and continued her activism. Hanifa highlighted the ongoing issues, stating that many injured protesters were still awaiting surgery, and her efforts to transfer patients to better facilities have been met with much resistance.
Hanifa spearheaded a national fundraiser called 'Care for the injured', which successfully raised over 30 million Kenyan shillings to cover medical bills for injured Kenyans in different hospitals.
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah was among the warmly welcomed leaders at the Shujaaz concert. He is known for his staunch advocacy and activism. Omtatah was among the leaders who were radical and vocal in opposing the withdrawn Finance Bill 2024. His welcome indicated how the bill's opponents became the people's 'darling.'
Overall, the Shujaaz Concert at Uhuru Park was a testament to the power of community and the importance of remembering and honouring those who have sacrificed in the fight for justice and equality in Kenya.