Kenyan police have fired tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters as thousands took to the streets to mark the first anniversary of anti-government demonstrations that left dozens dead.

At least 16 people died in the previous day's protests across Kenya, Amnesty International said on Thursday, as businesses and residents were left to clean up the devastation in the capital and beyond.

At least eight Kenyans died and more than 80 others were receiving specialized treatment Wednesday, with some suffering gunshot wounds, during countrywide protests against police brutality and poor governance,