When President William Ruto visited Nairobi on February 9, 2025, small business owners in the Central Business District were caught off guard. Road closures, heightened security, and restricted movement meant that many, like James Kariuki, faced a day without customers. “I barely made a sale the whole day,” he shared with the Daily Nation on February 10, 2025. “The worst part is that I still had to pay my rent and my employees with no income.”
This scenario isn’t unique to Nairobi. Small businesses across the country often face disruptions during high-profile political events. When the he visited Nakuru in January, traders estimated losses of up to Ksh10 million as major marketplaces locked their doors (Business Daily, January 12, 2025). Last year, the protests led by Gen Z resulted in looting and vandalism, causing many businesses to shut down. Naivas Supermarket, one of Kenya’s largest retail chains, was hard hit, but CIC Insurance Group stepped in with a Ksh150 million claim payment to help them recover from the damages (The Standard, December 20, 2024).
Given these challenges, many business owners are wondering how to safeguard themselves against such unexpected disruptions. The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics reports that SMEs contribute over 30% of Kenya’s GDP and employ more than 80% of the workforce. Yet, over half of these businesses do not survive beyond five years due to financial shocks (KNBS, 2024). A 2024 survey by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers revealed that 60% of SMEs had suffered financial losses from disruptions, with 40% blaming political activities and social unrest for their difficulties (Kenya Association of Manufacturers, 2024). These numbers highlight the importance of having a financial safety net.
For those impacted by these events, insurance can offer crucial support. CIC Insurance provides Public Liability and Property Insurance, which play a vital role in helping businesses manage such setbacks. Public Liability Insurance covers claims from customers or third parties for injuries or damages linked to a business, shielding owners from unexpected legal costs. Meanwhile, Property Insurance covers loss or damage due to fire, theft, vandalism, natural disasters, and civil unrest. This was especially clear when CIC compensated Naivas Supermarket, allowing them to restock and reopen quickly.
As businesses navigate this unpredictable environment, preparation is essential. While political visits and protests are beyond anyone’s control, having the right measures in place can make a significant difference. The ability to bounce back after a crisis ensures that businesses can continue serving their customers and supporting their employees, even in tough times.
