Kenya is a youthful nation. More than 70% of the population is under the age of 35. In theory, this gives young people massive power to shape the country's political future. In reality, however, youth are rarely seen in leadership, decision-making, or policy spaces. They are often voters, not leaders—participants, not decision-makers.
This raises an important question: Are Kenya’s youth the sleeping giant of politics? And if so, what will it take to wake them up?
Youth Numbers vs. Youth Power
Youth in Kenya have the numbers. During every election, they form the majority of registered voters. They dominate online spaces, have strong opinions about national issues, and are active in protests and social movements.
But when it comes to political power—running for office, influencing national policies, sitting in parliament or county assemblies—their presence is very limited. Most political positions are still held by older, well-connected individuals.
So why aren’t more young people leading?
What’s Holding Youth Back?
Several factors make it hard for Kenyan youth to take charge politically:
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Unemployment and Poverty: Most young people don’t have the money to run campaigns or engage in politics full-time. It’s hard to lead when you’re just trying to survive.
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Lack of Trust in the System: Many youth feel politics is corrupt, unfair, and controlled by the same people year after year. This creates frustration and apathy.
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Weak Political Parties: Most parties in Kenya are not open to young leadership. They are often built around individuals, not ideas—and young people are rarely taken seriously within them.
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Used But Not Included: Youth are often used by politicians for votes, campaigns, or even violence during elections. But once the elections are over, they are sidelined.
The Rise of Online Political Voices
Even though many young people are locked out of formal politics, they’ve found a powerful voice online.
Social media platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram have become spaces where youth discuss politics, call out injustice, and organize campaigns. Movements like #RejectFinanceBill, #EndFemicideKE, and #OccupyParliament show that Kenyan youth are paying attention—and are willing to speak up.
However, the big challenge remains: How do we turn online energy into real political change?
How Youth Can Wake the Giant
If Kenya’s youth want to lead real change, they must move beyond protests and hashtags. Here’s how they can do it:
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Understand the System: More civic education is needed. Young people must understand how government works, how laws are made, and how they can influence policies—not just during elections.
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Join or Create Stronger Movements: Whether through political parties or independent youth-led groups, young people need platforms that support their leadership and push real agendas.
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Engage Beyond Elections: Politics is more than voting. Youth can attend public forums, submit petitions, comment on budgets, and follow up on government promises.
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Support Youth Leaders: Youth should not only demand change—they must support their fellow youth who step up to lead. That means voting for them, funding them, and defending their place in leadership.
Conclusion: A Generation on the Edge of Change
Kenya’s youth are not lazy or uninterested in politics. They are aware, active, and passionate. What they lack is access, support, and trust in the system.
But this can change.
With unity, strategy, and courage, young people can shift from being used by politics to owning it. Kenya's future depends on whether its youth choose to stay silent—or step forward.
The giant is not asleep. It’s waking up.
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