Youth at the Crossroads: A Generation's Fight for Leadership and Accountability

 

Photo Courtesy: Sebastian Karani, DMCP - Facebook 

As Kenya grapples with a political landscape marred by corruption and unfulfilled promises, a new wave of activism is brewing among the country’s young population. This generation, often referred to as Generation Z is stepping up, not just in protest, but in action. For many, the goal is clear: reshape the nation’s future through leadership, education, and empowerment.

Following the protests that echoed across the nation, youths are now shifting their focus from the streets to strategy. Conversations are sprouting across different circles, from urban hubs to rural communities, where young people are determined to hold leaders accountable, starting with educating themselves and their peers on leadership and governance. The sentiment is unanimous: the success of any civic education efforts will ultimately be measured at the ballot box come 2027.

Learning from 2022: The Cost of Missed Opportunities

The 2022 general elections painted a stark picture of what happens when the youth fail to fully harness their collective power. Despite being the largest voting bloc, the majority of Kenyan youths did not use their numbers to push for transformative leadership. Instead, many of those elected were individuals with questionable track records, further entrenching corruption and self-interest in positions of influence.

One youth leader, reflecting on this missed opportunity, remarked, 

"Had we fully mobilized, we could have charted a different course for the nation. But that’s in the past, 2027 is our moment to get it right."

The upcoming election is seen as a pivotal moment for the youth. With a more informed and engaged population, this could be the election where Kenya’s youth finally take the reins, either by running for office themselves or by supporting visionary leaders who embody transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the public good.

The Power of Small Steps and Big Impact

For many youth activists, the path to change does not rely on grand gestures or high-profile campaigns. Rather, it is about consistent, small actions that lead to significant impacts. A growing number of young Kenyans are leveraging whatever resources they have to support these efforts whether through civic education, grassroots campaigns, or even proceeds from personal projects, like the sale of the Turn Around book, which is funding Youth Empowerment and community development initiatives.

The key, according to one, EoK's director Sebastian Karani, is to focus on the fundamentals. 

“If we support education, we create an informed society. If we take part in community development, we establish our presence and earn a seat at the table. And if we empower the youth, we break the cycle of political dependency.”

Photo Courtesy: Sebastian Karani, DMCP on Facebook 

Building a Foundation of Education and Empowerment

Civic education has emerged as a critical tool in the youth empowerment movement. By raising awareness about governance, rights, and responsibilities, young people can arm themselves with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions, not just as voters, but as future leaders. With many grassroots organizations now focusing on civic education, there’s hope that the next generation of voters will be more discerning and less susceptible to political handouts and empty promises.

Community development is another pillar of this movement. By contributing to tangible improvements in their neighborhoods, whether through infrastructure projects, environmental cleanups, or youth-led initiatives, young people are establishing themselves as leaders in their own right. These efforts create a sense of ownership and accountability, which, in turn, builds trust within communities.

Meanwhile, youth empowerment programs are breaking down the barriers that have historically kept young people from pursuing leadership roles. From entrepreneurial support to skills training, these programs are designed to foster independence and self-sufficiency, giving young Kenyans the tools they need to succeed without relying on political favors.

The Road to 2027: A Defining Moment

As the 2027 elections draw closer, the pressure is mounting for Kenyan youth to transform their ideals into action. The protests were just the beginning, what happens next will determine the trajectory of the nation for years to come.

“Our success won’t be measured by the size of our rallies or the volume of our voices,” says one youth leader. “It will be measured by what happens in the voting booth in 2027, whether we’ve mobilized enough to elect leaders who truly represent us, or if we’ve allowed the status quo to prevail.”

The goal is clear: young people must either run for office themselves or unite to elect leaders who prioritize integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mistakes of 2022 don’t have to be repeated. With the right preparation and engagement, 2027 could mark a turning point in Kenya’s political landscape, ushering in a new era of leadership driven by the values and aspirations of the youth.

As the movement continues to gain momentum, one thing is certain: the youth of Kenya are ready to claim their place in the country’s future. Through education, empowerment, and community-driven initiatives, they are laying the foundation for a more just, equitable, and accountable society. The question now is, who will join them on this journey?

In the words of those leading the charge: Who is not boarding?