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Gen Z's activism is slowly reshaping the political landscape, driving public discourse, and influencing policy decisions

7 key factors driving Gen Z's political awakening in Kenya | Pulselive Kenya

Amos Robi

<ul><li>Generation Z in Kenya is becoming increasingly politically active due to socio-economic challenges and rapid technological advancements</li><li>Young Kenyans are struggling with the burden of taxes, high unemployment rates, and obstacles to starting new businesses</li><li>Gen Z is using digital tools and social media to organize protests and campaigns to demand change</li></ul>

Kenya is witnessing a remarkable shift in political activism, driven largely by the fervent activism of Generation Z.

This generation, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, is coming of age in a time of significant socio-economic challenges and rapid technological advancements.

Gen Z in Kenya have become increasingly vocal and active in the political discourse, driven by a unique set of factors that compel them to demand change.

Here are some of the critical issues that have spurred Gen Z in Kenya into political action:

High taxation is a critical issue that has galvanised Gen Z in Kenya. The burden of taxes on individuals and businesses has been a significant point of contention.

Young professionals and entrepreneurs have found themselves overburdened by taxes that eat into their earnings and profits, making it difficult to save, invest, or expand their businesses.

Gen Z activists are calling for tax reforms that ensure a more equitable distribution of the tax burden, encourage business growth, and make it easier for young entrepreneurs to thrive.

Protestors during Occupy Parliament protests in Kenya

READ: <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/treasury-lines-up-budgets-cuts-for-kra-helb-tsc-school-feeding-and-others/lzwqez0">Treasury lines up budgets cuts for KRA, HELB, TSC, school feeding &amp; others</a>

They argue that a more favourable tax regime could stimulate economic activity, create jobs, and ultimately generate more revenue for the government through a broader tax base.

<h3>2. Limited employment opportunities</h3>

One of the primary catalysts for political activism among Gen Z in Kenya is the severe shortage of employment opportunities.

Despite high levels of education, many young Kenyans find themselves unemployed or underemployed.

The unemployment rate for youth is alarmingly high, with a significant portion of this demographic struggling to secure stable and meaningful employment.

Additionally, the slow growth of the formal sector has failed to keep pace with the burgeoning youth population.

READ: <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/kenyans-share-tips-on-how-to-identify-undercover-police-officers-during-protests/gt59llm">Kenyans share tips on how to identify undercover police officers during protests</a>

This disparity has led to frustration and disillusionment among young people, who feel that their potential is being squandered.

Another significant factor driving Gen Z's political engagement in Kenya is the high cost of doing business and starting new ventures.

Young entrepreneurs face numerous barriers, including bureaucratic red tape, exorbitant licensing fees, and inadequate access to financing.

These challenges stifle innovation and entrepreneurship, which are crucial for economic growth and job creation.

These obstacles disproportionately affect young people, who often lack the financial resources and networks to navigate such complexities.

Consequently, many young Kenyans have become politically active, advocating for policies that simplify business processes, reduce costs, and provide better support for startups.

A protestor walks away from teargas during Occupy Parliament protests in Kenya

READ: <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/ai-and-tech-tools-usher-new-era-of-activism-by-gen-z-and-millennials-in-kenya/fcb75mz">AI &amp; tech tools birth new era of activism by gen z and millennials in Kenya</a>

<h3>4. Economic inequality and cost of living</h3>

Economic inequality and the rising cost of living are additional factors that have mobilised Gen Z in Kenya.

The gap between the rich and the poor has widened, with a significant portion of the population living below the poverty line.

Inflation and high prices for essential goods and services have further strained the finances of young people, many of whom are struggling to make ends meet.

This economic strain has led to widespread dissatisfaction with the government's handling of economic policies and resource allocation.

Gen Z, equipped with digital tools and social media platforms, has been at the forefront of organising protests and campaigns to demand greater economic justice and accountability.

<h3>5. Corruption and governance issues</h3>

Widespread political corruption and poor governance have also fueled the political activism of Gen Z in Kenya.

The mismanagement of public funds has eroded trust in government institutions and leaders.

READ: <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/what-to-do-when-exposed-to-tear-gas-during-a-protest/gwml3b0">Why you shouldn't wash your face immediately after exposure to teargas</a>

Young people are increasingly disillusioned with the status quo and are demanding greater transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership.

The rise of social media has provided a powerful platform for Gen Z to expose corruption and mobilise collective action.

Environmental issues are also a significant concern for Gen Z in Kenya. Climate change, deforestation, pollution, and wildlife conservation are pressing issues that impact their lives and prospects.

Young environmental activists are demanding stronger policies and actions to protect the environment and ensure sustainable development.

READ: <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/details-of-anonymous-group-which-has-issued-warning-to-william-ruto-over-finance-bill/qrncvdx">Netizens react after Anonymous' stern warning to Kenyan gov't</a>

The mental health of young people in Kenya is another pressing issue driving political activism.

The pressures of unemployment, economic instability, and social challenges have taken a toll on the mental well-being of Gen Z.

7 key factors driving Gen Z's political awakening in Kenya

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