Eastleigh business leaders decry propaganda, defend cosmopolitan identity
Omar dismissed the claims as false, explaining that the Somali community often invests alongside people from other communities. He said such partnerships are common and benefit all parties involved.
Business leaders in Eastleigh, Nairobi, have condemned online propaganda targeting the business hub. Speaking to the media on Monday, Omar Hussein, Secretary General of the Eastleigh Business District Association (EBDA), criticised a section of individuals for spreading misinformation aimed at damaging Eastleigh's reputation.
Omar stated that Eastleigh is a business hub serving all Kenyans and should not be unfairly targeted. He emphasised that the area does not belong to one community but is instead a cosmopolitan business environment with partnerships between different groups.
More To Read
- Eastleigh Business District Association rebrands, unveils 2025 goals at annual meeting"
- Fazam Football Academy aims to shape the future of Kenyan football in Eastleigh
- Night market thrives on Eastleigh’s Kipanga Athumani Street as major malls close for the day
- Man accused of assaulting sister in Eastleigh surrenders to police for questioning
According to him, most buildings in Eastleigh are owned through joint ventures between communities, with profits shared as agreed.
"There are individuals who do not have the right information who are speaking negatively about Eastleigh and calling for a boycott of businesses here," Omar said.
Over the past week, several individuals have been posting messages and letters on social media calling for Kenyans to boycott businesses in Eastleigh. These calls are reportedly based on the belief that all businesses in the area are owned by members of the Somali community.
Omar dismissed the claims as false, explaining that the Somali community often invests alongside people from other communities. He said such partnerships are common and benefit all parties involved.
Business leaders in Eastleigh, Nairobi, have condemned online propaganda targeting the business hub. (Abdirahman Khalif)
Investments beyond community lines
Following EBDA's Annual General Meeting on Sunday, Chairman Ahmed Abdullahi also addressed the issue. He reiterated that Eastleigh businesses are cosmopolitan and criticised those spreading propaganda.
"If a Somali owns a petrol station, the owner of the supermarket there is a Kikuyu or someone from another community, and it's always vice versa," Ahmed stated.
He further noted that EBDA has been working to strengthen ties between different communities. Last year, the association met with the Kikuyu Council of Elders to discuss business-related matters, and similar efforts are ongoing. Ahmed vowed to continue linking EBDA with other communities to foster mutual understanding and collaboration.
The rise in social media attacks targeting Eastleigh coincides with broader concerns in Kenya over online misinformation and abuse. Last week, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo announced measures to address the misuse of digital platforms.
The government has directed all social media companies operating in Kenya to establish physical offices within the country. This move aims to enhance accountability and address increasing cases of harassment, hate speech, and incitement to violence.
Omollo stated that the government expects full compliance from telecommunications providers and social media platform owners. He called for stronger collaboration between the government, telecom operators, and social media organizations to ensure responsible use of digital platforms.
"In recognition of our collective obligation to ensure the responsible and secure use of various digital platforms, the Ministry underscores the need for strengthened collaboration," Omollo said.
Top Stories Today
