Gen Z Shakes Kenyan Politics: Activism's Impact and the Urgent Call for Change

Kenyan Gen Z's Political Impact: A Call for Lasting Change Kenya's political landscape has been significantly impacted by the activism of Generation Z, as evidenced by the recent maandamano protests. These protests, while impactful, highlight the need for sustained youth engagement to achieve lasting change, according to Njeri Kahiga, a National Youth Leader. In a recent interview, Kahiga stated, "During the Gen Z maandamano, every politician — both in government and opposition — saw a threat to their career." This underscores the power of youth mobilization and its potential to reshape the political system. Kahiga's analysis emphasizes that the success of youth movements relies on consistent participation. She warns that without sustained action, young people risk becoming part of a recurring cycle of activism without substantial change. She urges young Kenyans to understand that "it’s either they take action now or become part of the same cycle of youth who were there 'back then' but made no real change." Her call to action resonates with the urgency of addressing long-standing issues within the Kenyan political system. The interview provides a valuable platform to understand the challenges and opportunities facing young political activists in Kenya. Kahiga's insights offer a crucial perspective on the ongoing struggle for youth representation and participation in decision-making processes. The continued engagement of Gen Z will be vital in shaping a more inclusive and responsive political future for Kenya.