Kenyans Stage Mass Pro-Palestine Rally in Nairobi, Raise Millions for Gaza Aid
The rally, organized by Kenyans for Palestine and several partner organizations, highlighted deepening frustration among citizens over the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza
Kenya, PUREWILAYAH.COM — Thousands of Kenyans gathered in Nairobi on Sunday for one of the largest pro-Palestine demonstrations in the country’s history.
The rally, organized by Kenyans for Palestine and several partner organizations, highlighted deepening frustration among citizens over the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.
Protest and March to Uhuru Park
The day began with a convoy of motorbikes and cars from Adams Arcade, culminating in a mass rally at Uhuru Park. Demonstrators waved Palestinian flags, carried placards condemning Israel’s ongoing assault, and drew parallels between the plight of Palestinians and Africa’s colonial struggles.
Speakers included human rights defender Hanifa Aden, who declared: “We are here to show our solidarity for Palestine. It is not okay for children to be bombed. This is the most documented genocide ever.”
Irungu Houghton, Executive Director of Amnesty International Kenya, called the invasion of Gaza “worrying” and insisted that “the concern we have today is not only for Palestine. It is a concern of the entire planet.”
Other prominent attendees included former senator Billow Kerrow and Abdillahi Abdi, chairman of the National Muslim Leaders Forum (NAMLEF), who urged world leaders to intensify diplomatic efforts to end the violence.
Solidarity Fair and Fundraising
Beyond protest, the event doubled as a solidarity fair to mobilize humanitarian aid. Abna report says that Organizers announced that over KSh 10 million (approx. USD 78,000) was raised through donations, auctions, and contributions from across the country.
In symbolic gestures of sacrifice, many participants auctioned off personal jewelry, while vendors pledged half their proceeds to Gaza relief.
The event also launched a tree-planting campaign aiming to plant 10 billion trees as part of a symbolic fundraising initiative. Regional delegations from across Kenya delivered additional contributions to the organizing committee.
Emotional Appeals and Calls for Action
Moving speeches from community leaders, imams, and schoolchildren left many attendees in tears, underscoring the depth of public empathy. Organizers stressed that the gathering was not only about financial assistance, but also a powerful moral stand.
“This rally is a message to the world that Kenyans stand with Palestine, regardless of political positioning,” one organizer said.
The rally coincided with the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where the Gaza crisis is expected to dominate discussions.
It also came days after Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom formally recognized Palestinian statehood, adding urgency to international calls for a ceasefire and humanitarian access.
Critical Humanitarian Situation in Gaza
The Nairobi fundraiser spotlighted the dire conditions in Gaza, where over 65,000 people are estimated to have been killed since the escalation of Israeli attacks.
Hospitals are overwhelmed, facing shortages of medicine, surgical tools, and electricity. Aid groups warn of malnutrition and a looming health disaster, particularly among children.
Organizers of the Nairobi event appealed to the international community for immediate action, calling for unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza and increased funding for relief efforts.
Funds raised will go toward food parcels, medical kits, and other emergency supplies, to be delivered through humanitarian partners on the ground. (PW)