SABA SABA DAY COMMEMORATION: HONORING SACRIFICE AND STRUGGLE IN MOMBASA
Today Sunday, Mombasa residents gathered in a solemn assembly at Uhuru Gardens Park to commemorate Saba Saba Day, a poignant occasion dedicated to honoring fallen comrades who tragically lost their lives during recent demonstrations. The park was transformed into a sea of flickering candlelight, casting a somber glow as people gathered to pay their respects to those they fondly referred to as “fallen soldiers.”
The atmosphere was charged with emotion as historical figures like Dedan Kimathi, Khalid Balala, and Tom Mboya were commemorated through photographs, serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring struggle for justice that continues to shape the nation’s narrative.
Johnson Chivenda, a resident deeply affected by the losses, articulated the profound sense of grief and unity among the youth gathered at the event. “Today, we stand together as youth to mourn our friends lost during the recent protests. We mourn alongside parents who have lost their children. This gathering is a collective mourning of our generation—the future leaders,” he solemnly expressed.
Activist Bradley Ouna passionately addressed the grievances that had compelled many to take to the streets. “We are here today to mourn those who protested against the Finance Bill. Despite voicing our concerns in public forums about its oppressive impact on Kenyans—such as the 16% VAT on essential items like bread and the hike in car taxes—the budget committee turned a deaf ear to our pleas,” Ouna lamented.
Representing Generation X, Sonyia Britts stood in solidarity with the younger generation, emphasizing the continuity of struggle across different eras. “The parallels between today and Saba Saba in 1990 are stark. What sets this era apart is Generation Z’s understanding and participation in advocating for our rights through peaceful demonstrations,” she underscored.
Pendo, another attendee, expressed anger over the tragic loss of young lives. “Our youth are dying for merely expressing their voices. They were unarmed and peaceful,” Pendo exclaimed, reflecting the frustration and sorrow echoing through the gathering.
The commemoration at Uhuru Gardens Park was not just a moment of remembrance but also a poignant testament to the ongoing struggle for justice and the resilience of the Kenyan people across generations. As candles flickered and voices rose in solidarity, the event served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in pursuit of a better future, echoing the spirit of unity and determination that defines Saba Saba Day for the people of Mombasa and beyond.
