“In Kenya, street protests often escalate into scenes of violence, looting, and tragic loss of life, becoming an almost expected outcome. While modern democracies endorse public expression of grievances, these gatherings frequently attract criminal elements who exploit the chaos to engage in widespread theft, particularly targeting retail establishments.
In light of these challenges, what steps should business owners take? If there is prior indication of potential unrest, the safest course of action may be to temporarily close until calm is restored.
However, violence can erupt suddenly, even on ordinary days. One moment the atmosphere is peaceful, and the next, pandemonium ensues with people dispersing in all directions.
During riots, essential public services such as police, fire, healthcare, and ambulance services are often overwhelmed, making it unlikely for any single business or individual to receive prompt emergency assistance.
Private security guards, while valuable, may be ill-equipped to thwart large-scale attacks on businesses. Even when armed, a single guard faces daunting odds against a mob armed with crude weapons. Given these realities, business owners must take proactive measures to safeguard their premises in anticipation of potential unrest.
Here are some recommended actions:
- Stay informed: Maintain current awareness of local developments and assess your vulnerability during periods of unrest. Consult with local authorities to determine the advisability of remaining open.
- Secure hazardous items: Remove potential tools for vandalism or arson, such as flammable materials, and fortify access points that rioters could exploit.
- Enhance physical security: Install protective barriers like grilles, metal doors, and shatter-resistant glass, common defenses used by businesses in high-risk areas like city centers.
- Foster community relations: Establish positive relationships within your community through ethical business practices and involvement in local development initiatives. Such connections can mitigate local grievances that might otherwise escalate into disturbances.
- Obtain insurance coverage: Explore insurance options tailored to protect against riot-related damages. Regular premiums ensure coverage against unforeseen events, sparing businesses from the financial strain of repairing uninsured losses.
Unfortunately, many affected businesses lack insurance coverage, necessitating alternative funding sources for recovery. The Institute of Economic Affairs cites low insurance uptake in Kenya, partly attributed to perceived costliness and inadequate customer education by brokers. Consequently, delayed claims processing has fueled public skepticism toward insurance reliability.”
