In a massive vote of confidence for the retail sector’s resilience, Naivas Supermarket has received a staggering Sh134 million insurance payout to cover losses from the 2025 protests.

The cheque, issued by CIC Insurance Group, is more than just a financial transaction; it is a lifeline. It represents the closure of a painful chapter for Kenya’s leading retailer, which bore the brunt of the looting and vandalism during the Gen Z demonstrations on June 25, 2025. This payout is one of the largest single claim settlements in recent Kenyan corporate history, signaling that the insurance industry is ready to stand by businesses in turbulent times.

The Cost of Chaos

The images from that fateful day are still fresh: shattered glass, empty shelves, and smoke billowing from Naivas outlets. The retailer, which has become a ubiquitous part of Kenyan life, was targeted by opportunists who hijacked the political unrest. The Sh134 million figure quantifies the physical destruction, but the psychological toll on staff and customers was incalculable.

"This compensation allows us to fully rebuild and restock," said a Naivas executive during the handover ceremony. "It validates our risk management strategy. We are not just rebuilding stores; we are rebuilding trust with our customers who rely on us for their daily needs."

• The Insurer: CIC Insurance Group, demonstrating strong liquidity and commitment to its clients.
• The Timeline: The payout comes less than a year after the incident, a relatively fast turnaround for a claim of this magnitude.
• Future Proofing: Naivas has announced enhanced security measures and updated insurance policies to mitigate future political risks.

A Resilient Market

Market analysts view this settlement as a stabilizing factor for the entire retail supply chain. When a giant like Naivas sneezes, suppliers catch a cold. By securing this capital, Naivas ensures that its thousands of suppliers—from dairy farmers to manufacturers—will continue to be paid and have a route to market.

As Naivas reopens its refurbished branches, the message is clear: Kenyan business is resilient. The scars of the protests may still be visible on the streets, but in the boardrooms and balance sheets, the recovery is well underway. The Sh134 million is not just cash; it is the fuel for a comeback.