Julius Kiilu, a gas cylinder dealer in Machakos Town watches the remains of his Canter that burned down during the Sabasaba demonstration. Photo Virginia Siebela. 
By Virginia Siebela
The Saba Saba demonstrations in Machakos County have left a trail of destruction, with traders counting heavy losses — some running into millions of shillings.
Among those hardest hit is Julius Kiilu, a gas cylinder dealer in Machakos Town, whose business of over 30 years was reduced to ashes. Julius, who began trading in 1993, is now in shock after watching his entire investment go up in flames.
A truck parked at his premises carrying 23 gas cylinders was completely burnt down, along with all other gas stock on site.
In just under two hours, his entire life's work — his inheritance — was destroyed. He now estimates his losses at over Ksh 2 million.
According to his daughter, Brenda Mousa, the business was the family’s main source of livelihood.
At the moment, scrap metal dealers have already descended on the scene, cutting and collecting the remains of the burnt-down property.
