Anthony Mwangi / FILE
Kenya has a very youthful population, with over 75 per cent of its citizens aged 35 and below. This youth bulge presents both significant opportunities and challenges for the country's development.
The youth are demanding economic opportunities, accountability, transparent governance and systemic reforms in the country to address inequality and civic freedoms.
There are concerns over high youth unemployment, which is at an average of 67 per cent for under 35s, rising living costs, and controversial policies like the 2024 Finance Bill.
They seek job creation, reduced reliance on loans, and an end to corruption, including political patronage via harambees.
Protests, sparked by incidents such as the recent killing of blogger Albert Ojwang, the first anniversary of the lives lost on June 25, 2024, and vendor Boniface Kariuki, also highlight the need for justice for police violence, with over 60 deaths reported in 2024.
Gen Z and the country's youth in general are pushing for constitutional respect for assembly rights and an end to media blackouts and the arrest of activists.
To prevent escalation, the government should initiate inclusive and structured dialogue with the youth. There is a need to create structures to sustain these engagements.
Economic reforms, such as tax breaks for youth-led enterprises, could address unemployment.
Further, address issues with the university funding model conclusively. Transparent budgeting and anti-corruption measures, like regulating harambees, are also critical.
Finally, countering misinformation via social media and protecting digital freedoms will help maintain trust.
South Africa’s #FeesMustFall movement (2015-2016) offers a valuable model, where the government de-escalated protests by freezing university fees and engaging students, underscoring the importance of addressing core demands like jobs.
By prioritising dialogue, accountability, and youth-focused policies, Kenya can harness the youth’s energy, including Gen Z’s, prevent violence, and build a more equitable future.
The writer is a public policy expert and former CEO, Kenya Association of Manufacturers
Comments 0
Sign in to join the conversation
Sign In Create AccountNo comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!