In recent years, Kenya has witnessed a unique form of youth activism led by Generation Z (Gen-Z). Characterized by a blend of physical demonstrations and digital mobilization, these protests have brought about unprecedented pressure on the government, challenging the existing legal regime and governance structures. This article explores the origins, causes, impact, and the future implications of Gen-Z protests, delving into their historical context, the role of social media, the legal and governmental response, and the socio-economic triggers that continue to fuel youth discontent.

Historical Context of Youth Activism in Kenya

Kenya has a long history of civil protests, dating back to the Mau Mau uprising during the struggle for independence, through to the post-colonial era, with notable protests in the 1990s for multi-party democracy. However, youth protests in contemporary Kenya have evolved, driven primarily by socio-economic marginalization, government corruption, and dissatisfaction with political leadership.

Historically, Kenyan youth, like their counterparts in many African nations, have been excluded from meaningful participation in governance. Older generations dominate the political landscape, leaving the youth, particularly Gen-Z, disillusioned by electoral processes that they feel do not represent their interests. Unlike previous protests, which were more structured and rooted in political movements, the recent Gen-Z uprisings are largely spontaneous and often organized through social media, reflecting the digital-savviness of this generation.

Gen-Z and Digital Mobilization

One of the defining characteristics of the Gen-Z protests is the extensive use of digital platforms, especially social media, to mobilize large-scale demonstrations. The GeoPoll report found that social media has been the primary organizing tool for 76% of the protestors. Platforms such as Twitter and Instagram have been utilized not only to plan protests but also to disseminate information and create viral campaigns that pressure government authorities.

This form of digital mobilization has redefined civic engagement in Kenya. Unlike older protests that were physically confined to major cities, Gen-Z has extended their protests into the virtual realm, allowing rural communities and international allies to participate. Hashtags such as #UnlockOurFutures, which trends consistently during protest periods, reflect the collective call for action by a generation deeply disillusioned by the status quo.

The digital nature of these protests has, however, raised significant legal questions, particularly about online freedom of expression, data privacy, and the state’s ability to monitor or control online dissent. Kenya’s cybercrime laws, including the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act of 2018, have been invoked to stifle online activism, raising concerns about the extent to which the government can regulate or infringe upon digital spaces used for protest.

Socio-Economic Triggers: Unemployment and Economic Disenfranchisement

Economic inequality is a driving force behind the Gen-Z protests. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kenya faces a critical youth unemployment crisis, with 38.9% of its young population out of work. This unemployment figure is compounded by a general sense of economic disenfranchisement among the youth, who feel excluded from the benefits of national development.

The Gen-Z generation, many of whom are college-educated, see a disconnect between their academic achievements and the opportunities available to them in the job market. This mismatch between education and employment has fostered growing resentment against the government, which is perceived as failing to provide adequate job opportunities, despite promises of economic reforms and youth empowerment initiatives.

The protests have been further ignited by economic policies such as increased taxation, fuel price hikes, and the high cost of living, which disproportionately affect young people. Youths in informal employment, who make up a significant portion of Kenya’s workforce, are particularly vulnerable to these economic shifts. In the protests, demands for economic reforms feature prominently, with youth calling for greater government accountability in job creation, fair wages, and a reduction in the cost of living.

Legal and Governance Implications

The Gen-Z protests have profound implications for Kenya’s legal regime, particularly concerning constitutional rights and police conduct. Article 37 of the 2010 Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, demonstration, picketing, and petition. However, the Kenyan government’s response to the protests has often involved heavy-handed tactics, including the use of teargas, water cannons, and mass arrests. The legal framework governing protests, primarily through the Public Order Act and the National Police Service Act, has been criticized for enabling excessive force during protests.

In light of increasing police brutality, human rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have raised alarms over the government’s failure to uphold constitutional protections during protests. Protestors have also faced charges under the Penal Code, with some being charged with incitement or destruction of property, which critics argue undermines the fundamental right to protest.

The rising tensions between the youth and law enforcement authorities have prompted discussions about reforming Kenya’s protest laws. There is growing advocacy for amending the Public Order Act to reduce the discretionary powers of the police in dispersing protests, and for introducing new safeguards that ensure protestors’ rights are protected in line with international human rights standards.

Political Impact and Future Implications

The Gen-Z protests have not only called attention to socio-economic injustices but have also questioned the very foundations of Kenya’s political system. As ACRC notes, these protests have the potential to shift Kenya’s power structures, with the youth seeking greater representation in governance. Youth disillusionment with traditional political parties has led to calls for a new political order, where young leaders and reformists take center stage.

The upcoming 2027 general elections will likely be a litmus test for how the political elite respond to youth demands. The Gen-Z protest movements have already signaled a desire for systemic political change, with a focus on electoral reforms, anti-corruption measures, and constitutional amendments to allow for greater youth participation in governance. If current trends continue, we could see a more youth-led political movement emerge, significantly altering the dynamics of Kenyan politics.

Conclusion

The memoirs of Gen-Z protests in Kenya represent more than just isolated acts of dissent. They signify a broader youth-led movement against entrenched political and economic systems that have marginalized young people for decades. As the protests evolve, they challenge both Kenya’s legal framework and governance model, pushing for reforms that promote inclusivity, accountability, and economic justice. While the future of these movements remains uncertain, their legacy on the country’s political and legal landscape is undeniable, marking a crucial chapter in Kenya’s ongoing quest for democratic governance.

Published by Joshua Kimani, Legal Researcher