School Closure in Kenya Ahead of Protests Against Tax Increases

The Kenyan government closed schools in the capital and two other regions on Wednesday as the country prepared for three days of demonstrations against the rising cost of living. The government has stated that "taxes on fuel and housing, which are expected to raise 200 billion shillings (1.4 billion dollars), are necessary to help pay off mounting debts and to fund job creation initiatives." Most shops in Nairobi's central business district remained closed, with streets appearing rather empty ahead of the Azimio protests. The opposition in Kenya has called for the protests for several reasons, including tax increases imposed by President William Ruto's government last month. Tight security was reported in Migori ahead of the anti-government protests.