Kenya's youth vote:Will they lead the political change we need?

 

In a country where nearly 75% of the population is under the age of 35, the role of the youth in Kenyan politics cannot be overstated. The younger generation is increasingly asserting itself, challenging the status quo, and demanding a political system that addresses their needs and aspirations. From voting to activism, the youth are playing a pivotal role in the country's political landscape. This article explores how Kenyan youth are influencing politics today and what their involvement means for the future of the nation.

1. The Demographic Power of the Youth

Kenya is one of the youngest countries in Africa, with a median age of just 19 years. This youthful demographic represents a vast and untapped reservoir of energy, creativity, and potential. In the 2022 general elections, over 60% of registered voters were under the age of 35, making the youth vote crucial in determining political outcomes. Their involvement is not just a matter of numbers, but also of impact—young people’s preferences, opinions, and concerns are increasingly shaping political discourse.

The sheer size of this demographic means that political leaders can no longer afford to ignore youth concerns. The youth are not only the largest voting bloc, but also the group most affected by issues such as unemployment, education, and economic inequality. These issues, among others, have pushed the youth to become more politically conscious, vocal, and active than ever before.

2. The Rise of Political Movements and Activism

Kenyan youth have increasingly turned to political activism to express their dissatisfaction with the status quo. This activism is often seen in both formal and informal political movements. One of the most notable political movements to emerge in recent years is the “Hustler Movement” championed by President William Ruto during the 2022 elections. The movement, which targeted the economically disenfranchised, was embraced largely by young Kenyans who felt neglected by the political elite.

Ruto’s message of economic empowerment, job creation, and the promise of a “bottom-up” economic model resonated deeply with the youth. The movement shifted the political conversation from the traditional, top-down approaches to governance to one that promises to prioritize the needs of the common citizen. The focus on "hustlers," or ordinary working-class citizens, highlighted the frustrations of many young people who have faced barriers to economic opportunities and felt sidelined in the political and economic systems.

Beyond political campaigns, youth-led movements in Kenya are also challenging issues such as corruption, government accountability, and social injustice. Activism on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook has become a powerful tool for rallying young people and amplifying their voices. The #MyDressMyChoice movement, for example, was a youth-led campaign that successfully advocated for women’s rights to dress as they choose without being harassed or victimized. Such grassroots movements reflect the growing political engagement of the youth, especially in challenging entrenched social and political systems.

3. Youth Representation in Political Offices

While young people make up a significant portion of the electorate, their representation in political office has historically been limited. However, this is changing as a new generation of leaders is emerging. The 2022 election saw an increase in the number of young candidates running for political office. In fact, for the first time, the youth were more visibly involved in politics, with more young people securing seats in Parliament and local government offices.

One of the most prominent examples of youth involvement in Kenyan politics is Emmy Kosgei, a member of Parliament from Eldoret, who was elected at the age of 25. Her victory, along with others like it, signals that young people are becoming more involved in the political process, both as voters and as candidates. The Kenya Youth Manifesto, launched in the run-up to the 2022 elections, also highlighted youth concerns such as employment, affordable healthcare, and access to education, further emphasizing the youth's role in pushing for change within the political system.

However, despite this progress, youth representation remains low compared to the older, more entrenched political class. Political parties still tend to favor older, more experienced candidates for high-profile positions. The underrepresentation of youth in decision-making bodies has led to calls for reforms to increase youth participation in leadership positions, including through reserved seats for young people in Parliament and local assemblies.

4. The Influence of Social Media and Digital Platforms

In the 21st century, social media has become an indispensable tool in the political landscape, especially for young people. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have given Kenyan youth a space to voice their opinions, organize protests, and share information on political issues. Social media has also become a powerful tool for holding politicians accountable, as it allows young people to instantly share news, expose corruption, and mobilize support for causes.

In the 2022 election, social media was instrumental in shaping political narratives. Both Ruto and Raila Odinga, the two main presidential candidates, used social media to directly engage with the electorate, particularly the youth. While social media has its downsides, including the spread of misinformation and political polarization, it has undeniably provided Kenyan youth with an unprecedented level of access to information and a platform for political expression.

The ability to bypass traditional media channels and speak directly to millions of people has democratized political discourse. Social media allows young people to participate in political debates, discuss issues, and influence the political agenda. It also provides a space for the youth to challenge political narratives that do not align with their values or priorities.

5. Challenges Facing Youth in Kenyan Politics

Despite their growing involvement in politics, Kenyan youth continue to face significant challenges. One of the most pressing issues is youth unemployment, which stands at over 40%, the highest in the region. Many young people feel disconnected from the political process because they see little improvement in their livelihoods. This frustration has led to a feeling of political alienation, with many young people questioning whether politicians truly represent their interests.

Additionally, political patronage and ethnic divisions still play a dominant role in Kenyan politics. The ethnic-based political alliances that have historically defined Kenyan politics continue to limit opportunities for youth who are not aligned with the dominant political factions. This, coupled with widespread corruption and nepotism, makes it difficult for young people from marginalized communities to access political power.

The challenges of financial barriers, lack of political mentorship, and underrepresentation of youth in leadership positions further complicate the youth’s path to political influence. For many, the political system still feels distant, controlled by the political elite and resistant to change.

6. What the Future Holds for Youth in Kenyan Politics

As Kenya continues to evolve, the youth are increasingly playing a more active and visible role in shaping its political future. Their growing political consciousness and engagement are pushing the country toward a more inclusive, dynamic, and forward-thinking political environment.

In the future, the youth will likely continue to demand more from their leaders, particularly when it comes to issues such as job creation, affordable education, and a transparent government. They will also push for more inclusive policies that reflect their diverse needs, from social welfare to technology-driven innovation. The next generation of political leaders is likely to emerge from this youthful demographic, bringing with them new ideas and strategies to address Kenya’s pressing challenges.

As Kenya approaches the 2027 elections and beyond, the youth will likely hold even more sway in determining the political agenda. Political parties will need to adapt to the aspirations of the younger generation or risk losing their support. For the first time in Kenya’s history, it seems that the youth will no longer be bystanders in politics—they are the driving force behind the change.

Conclusion

Kenyan youth are no longer passive observers of the political process. They are active participants, driving political discourse, challenging the status quo, and demanding a government that serves their interests. Whether through activism, voting, or running for office, young people are reshaping Kenyan politics and ensuring that their voices are heard. The future of the country is in their hands, and as they continue to rise, they will undoubtedly influence Kenya’s political trajectory for generations to come.