11 arrested as police block protesters from Africa Forward Summit

Protesters during the Africa Summit. 

Police in Nairobi arrested 11 people on Tuesday as they blocked protesters from accessing the Africa Forward Summit at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

Anti-riot officers dispersed two separate groups attempting to stage demonstrations against the ongoing summit.

The first group tried to approach the venue from near Serena Hotel but was stopped and dispersed near YMCA hostels before reaching the city centre.

A second group of human rights activists was blocked from accessing KICC during the main session, with arrests made along Uhuru Highway as they attempted to move closer to the venue.

Witnesses said the activists were repelled and some bundled into police vehicles. Those detained reportedly included foreign nationals.

Police, however, said at least five people were arrested.

The Central Organising Committee of the Communist Party Marxist Kenya condemned the arrests, accusing authorities of intimidation and harassment.

It said those detained included “distinguished anti-imperialist and revolutionary activists, intellectuals and organisers” who had come to show solidarity with African struggles against imperialism and neo-colonial domination.

“Their only crime is standing with the oppressed… declaring that Africa is not for sale,” the group said, demanding their immediate and unconditional release.

Security around KICC was tightened after the incident, with access roads cordoned off and police patrols increased around the venue.

Police said a formal statement will be issued later.

The Africa Forward Summit entered its second day on Tuesday, with high-level sessions focusing on financing reforms, peace and security, artificial intelligence, the blue economy, health, and agriculture.