Busia Border Business Grinds to a Halt Amidst Kenyan Riots

The usually bustling Busia border post has been brought to a standstill as widespread riots grip parts of Kenya. The unrest, sparked by soaring fuel prices, has paralyzed cross-border trade and left numerous traders stranded with their merchandise.

Reports indicate that the protests, which began on Monday, have turned violent, with three fatalities attributed to stray bullets fired by Kenyan police. Eyewitnesses describe chaotic scenes of burning tires, road blockades, and clashes between protesters and security forces.

Kenyan citizens are decrying fuel prices that have reached approximately 244 Kenyan shillings (around Shs7,300) per litre for petrol and diesel, a stark contrast to Uganda’s prices of about Shs6,000 and Shs5,650 respectively. The high cost is being blamed on global supply chain issues exacerbated by Middle Eastern conflicts, but protestors are demanding government tax reductions.

Ugandan traders dealing in perishable goods like cassava and avocados are facing significant losses as their products remain unsold on the Ugandan side. Many have fled the immediate border area, fearing for their safety and the security of their goods. Kenyan citizens have also crossed into Uganda seeking refuge from the volatile situation.

The economic impact is far-reaching, with clearing agents reporting that no trucks have crossed the border since the riots intensified. This blockade is disrupting both imports and exports, affecting businesses on both sides of the border that rely heavily on cross-border commerce.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kenya-riots-paralyse-business-in-busia-5467370