Gen-Z and the youth revolt that changed Kenya and President Ruto

Gen Z Leads a Bold Push for Change: How Youth Protests Shook Kenya in 2024
Nairobi, Kenya – In a historic display of civic activism, Kenya’s youth, particularly members of Generation Z, took to the streets in mid-2024 to protest the controversial Finance Bill and express broader frustrations with government policies. Demonstrations spread rapidly across Nairobi and other major towns, with young protesters wielding creative slogans like Zakayo and Shuka, which quickly became symbols of their movement. The protests, marked by their energy and organization, captured national attention and challenged President William Ruto’s administration to address the concerns of a generation increasingly disillusioned with the political class.
The roots of the unrest lie in the growing economic and social pressures facing young Kenyans, including unemployment, rising cost of living, and perceived government indifference. Analysts noted that this wave of activism was fueled not only by the Finance Bill but also by a longer history of frustrations among the youth, who feel excluded from meaningful participation in political and economic decision-making. Social media played a critical role in mobilizing protesters and amplifying their message, transforming the demonstrations into a nationwide phenomenon. Reports highlighted clashes with security forces, arbitrary detentions, and incidents of excessive force, which drew criticism from human rights organizations and amplified calls for reform.
The impact of these protests has been significant, prompting the government to engage more directly with youth representatives and rethink aspects of its policy agenda. Observers argue that the demonstrations have reshaped political discourse in Kenya, highlighting the influence of younger voters and the power of digital activism. Looking ahead, the events of 2024 may mark a turning point in Kenya’s political landscape, signaling that future administrations will need to be more responsive to the demands of a politically aware and assertive younger generation if they hope to maintain stability and public trust.