As political tensions escalate toward Kenya’s 2027 general elections, a worsening youth unemployment crisis is raising alarm among policymakers, community leaders, and civil society organizations. With millions of young Kenyans facing scarce economic opportunities, stakeholders now warn of mounting risks of political manipulation and social instability without immediate action.
Nationwide, the challenge is evident, as a youthful population enters the workforce much faster than employment opportunities are created. Analysts warn that without deliberate investments in skills development and job creation, the country risks repeating previous election cycles where disaffected youth were drawn into turmoil and manipulation.
Yet, amidst this uncertainty, a quiet transformation is unfolding in Thika, offering a glimmer of hope.
In Thika, an increasing number of young people are moving away from street activities toward digital content creation, thanks to an innovative, free film and technology training program. The initiative provides participants with practical skills in videography, editing, and online media production tools that are increasingly valuable in today’s digital economy.
The program is led by Joseph Giathi, widely known as Mzalendo JT, CEO of Pepe Media Company. Giathi has positioned the initiative as both an economic empowerment platform and a preventive measure against rising social risks.
“Idleness is a ticking time bomb, especially as we enter this political cycle,” Giathi stated during a recent training session. “When young people have no stake in the economy, they become vulnerable to crime, substance abuse, and political exploitation. We must act now.”
He emphasized that digital technology has become a powerful equalizer, enabling young people to overcome traditional employment barriers and access global markets through online content creation.
Kenya’s electoral history has repeatedly demonstrated the vulnerability of unemployed youth during campaign periods. With politicians often mobilizing large numbers for rallies and other activities, idle youth populations have frequently been entangled in divisive or even violent engagements.
Giathi cautioned against this trend, urging young people to resist being used as instruments for political interests.
“The youth must refuse to be reduced to political pawns. The future lies in building sustainable careers, not in temporary handouts that leave them worse off,” he said.
He pointed to the creative economyincluding film, social media, and digital marketingas a viable alternative capable of absorbing thousands of young people if properly supported.
The impact of the program, operating under Sauti Pepe Media, is already visible among its beneficiaries.
Felix Kithinji, one of the participants, described the training as life-changing.
“This program completely changed my trajectory. Without these skills, many of us would have ended up in crime or drug abuse. Now we are creating content, building brands, and earning an income,” he said.
Similarly, Jemimah Wanjiru highlighted the renewed sense of purpose among participants, noting that the training has instilled both confidence and independence.
However, despite these successes, trainees identified a persistent disconnect between government policy and grassroots realities. They expressed frustration that youth empowerment funds often fail to reach genuine community-based initiatives.
Participants and organizers are now calling for a coordinated approach to address youth unemployment, urging key stakeholders to increase their involvement.
They are appealing to religious institutions to expand their role beyond spiritual guidance by investing in vocational and technical training centers.
Experts argue that such a collaborative approach could unlock Kenya’s youth potential while safeguarding national stability ahead of the 2027 elections.
As Kenya approaches a critical electoral period, the Thika initiative is emerging as a model for youth empowerment. By equipping young people with relevant, income-generating skills, it demonstrates a practical pathway toward reducing unemployment and mitigating social risks.
For many beneficiaries, the message is clear: empowerment, not rhetoric, holds the key to a stable and prosperous future.