THE RISE OF GEN Z AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR GOVERNANCE, STABILITY AND DEMOCRACY IN KENYA

ISSUE
As Kenya enters 2025, the political landscape has been profoundly reshaped by the emergence of Generation Z (often referred to as Gen-Z), the generation of Kenyans born between the late 1990s and early 2010s. This demographic has long felt dejected and neglected by the government and is increasingly vocal about their demands for accountability, transparency, and social equity. Their dissatisfaction with traditional political practices and subsequent mobilization against perceived injustices poses significant political risks to the current government led by President William Ruto if not adequately addressed. More importantly, this generational shift toward issue-based advocacy has profound implications for governance, stability, and the future of Kenya’s democracy.

BACKGROUND
Kenya's political climate has been marked by significant turbulence, particularly following the closely contested 2022 elections, where President William Ruto narrowly secured victory by capitalizing on widespread public dissatisfaction. Since assuming office, his administration has faced numerous challenges, including soaring inflation, persistent corruption, and mounting public frustration over the rising national debt and escalating cost of living. These economic pressures culminated in widespread protests triggered by the introduction of the Finance Bill 2024. The bill proposed expanding Kenya’s tax base through controversial measures, such as taxing essential goods like bread and cooking oil. Many Kenyans viewed these policies as exacerbating their already dire economic situation, further fueling discontent and unrest.

Despite significant public opposition – 83% of the population reportedly disapproved of the proposed taxes – the government attempted to push the legislation through Parliament. This disregard for public sentiment ignited a wave of protests led by Gen-Z activists who leveraged social media platforms to organize protests and disseminate information rapidly under hashtags like #OccupyParliament and #RejectFinanceBill2024, leading to confrontations with law enforcement and marking a historic moment in Kenyan politics where youth-led movements began to mobilize politically and reshape governance narratives. The nationwide protests also marked a departure from traditional ethnic-based mobilization to issue-based activism focused on economic justice, governance reforms, and accountability.

LANDSCAPE
The mass protests, initially organised in the capital city, Nairobi, spread across the country with demonstrations taking place in almost every city and major town. The absence of a singular leader among these protests allowed for a decentralized movement that transcends tribal affiliations, appealing to a broader base of young Kenyans united by common grievances. The protests against the Finance Bill were not merely reactions to specific policies; they represented long-standing grievances regarding government corruption and a lack of opportunities for young people. What started out as a protest against taxes and government incompetence evolved into a show of public anger and frustration with what many Kenyans see as a corrupt leadership that does not adequately acknowledge their struggles. The protests forced President Ruto into a significant policy reversal – he scrapped the controversial Finance Bill and reshuffled his cabinet to create a more inclusive government. This response indicates the power that organized youth movements can wield in shaping policy outcomes. The protests also highlighted systemic issues within Kenyan governance, including a lack of transparency and accountability that have fueled public distrust.

IMPLICATIONS
The implications of Gen-Z's rising influence on Kenya's political landscape are profound:

• Short-Term Implications

1. Increased Civil Unrest: If the government fails to address Gen-Z's demands adequately, there is a heightened risk of renewed civil unrest. Protests may escalate into larger movements that challenge governmental authority.
2. Policy Reversals: The government may be compelled to make rapid policy adjustments in response to public pressure, potentially leading to instability in governance as leaders react rather than plan strategically.

• Mid-Term Implications

1. Shift in Political Dynamics: As Gen-Z continues to mobilize, traditional political parties may face challenges in maintaining relevance. New political movements or parties that align with Gen-Z values may emerge.
2. Erosion of Public Trust: Continued dissatisfaction with the government could lead to an erosion of trust in political institutions, resulting in lower voter turnout and engagement in future elections

• Long-Term Implications

1. Transformation of Governance Practices: The demands for accountability and transparency may force the much-needed changes in governance practices and decision making processes.
2. Redefinition of Political Leadership: The rise of Gen-Z activism could reshape Kenya’s political landscape by fostering a new class of leaders leaders who prioritize issue-based politics and are more attuned to the needs of younger citizens.

REFERENCES
1. Waithaka Njuguna Iraki, “Kenya unrest: the deep economic roots that brought Gen-Z onto the streets,” The Conversation, June 28, 2024, https://theconversation.com/kenya-unrest-the-deep-economic-roots-that-brought-gen-z-onto-the-streets-233463.

2. Job Mwaura, “Kenya Protests: Gen Z Shows the Power of Digital Activism,” The Conversation, June 22, 2024, https://theconversation.com/kenya-protests-gen-z-shows-the-power-of-digital-activism-driving-change-from-screens-to-the-streets-233065.

3. Khasai Makhulo, “Taking Charge: Gen Z Leads Historic Protests in Kenya,” Center for Strategic and International Studies, June 27, 2024, https://www.csis.org/analysis/taking-charge-gen-z-leads-historic-protests-kenya.

Nairobi, 22 August – As global dynamics continue to shift rapidly, driven by technological advancements, geopolitical realignments, climate change, and economic disruptions, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) faces both unprecedented challenges and unique opportunities. In response, the annual IRSK Conference 2025 will convene from 1–3 October 2025, in Nairobi Kenya, offering a timely and interdisciplinary space for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and strategic foresight.

Jointly hosted by the COMESA, the International Relations Society of Kenya (IRSK), Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) - Kenya Office, the African Center for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (ACCORD) and Acacia Dialogue Center (ADC), this 3rd edition of the IRSK Annual Conference presents an exciting convergence of theory and practice in international relations and diplomacy.

Held under the theme, "Enhancing COMESA’s Strategic Positioning and Resilience in the Evolving Global Order”. The three-day conference will bring together key stakeholders, including diplomats, government officials, policymakers, scholars, business leaders, media, and civil society from the COMESA region and beyond. Through exciting blend of insightful keynotes, roundtable discussions, research presentations, book launches, workshops, and networking events, the conference will foster collaboration and facilitate knowledge sharing among participants, enabling meaningful contributions towards an empowered COMESA region, capable of navigating complex global challenges with confidence and cohesion.

We expect over 130 delegates from Kenya, Uganda, S.A, Ausralia, Zambia, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe among others. The participants will include a mix of high-level guests, seasoned experts and emerging voices in international relations and diplomacy, providing a rich tapestry of perspectives and experiences.

At the conference, participants will critically interrogate theoretical, conceptual and methodological approaches as well as instruments adopted to deal with the issues within the COMESA region and its 30 years of impact. These are to be embedded in elaborate, innovative and empirical examination in order to spur both rigorous academic and policy discourse.

The conference's outcomes shall be converted into actionable strategies and policies that will help inform more effective diplomatic approaches to addressing some of the region’s most complex
challenges.

Participants are invited to register for the IRSK Conference 2025 through our dedicated registration ticket portal: https://gig.co.ke/event/gev_1031/ticket. Early registration is encouraged to secure participation in this high-level event. In the lead-up to the conference, IRSK and its partners will collaborate with selected media outlets to ensure broad coverage and engagement. Participants are responsible for all their logistics including flights, accommodation and visa.

Media organisations interested in partnering or covering the event are encouraged to contact the conference press for further information.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Ms. Paidamwoyo Mudzimuirema
paidamwoyo@accord.org.za
ACCORD

About The Organizers.

The International Relations Society of Kenya (IRSK) is the professional body for the International Affairs and Diplomacy fields in Kenya. The Society serves as a forum for the exchange of ideas, networking, and programmatic initiatives among those involved in the study, teaching, and practice of international relations and diplomacy. IRSK works to promote policy dialogues on international affairs and diplomacy between various parties, carry out pertinent and substantial research, and engage in conversation and collaboration with various actors at national, regional, and international levels. www.irskenya.or.ke

The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) was established in 1994 to replace the former Preferential Trade Area (PTA). It is the largest Regional Economic Community with a total of 21 Member States. COMESA’s main focus is to promote economic prosperity through regional integration. Its objective also includes the promotion of peace and security in the region as espoused in Article 3(d) of the COMESA Treaty. The program on peace and security specifically focuses on governance, conflict prevention, conflict management and post-conflict reconstruction. www.comesa.int

The African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (ACCORD) is a civil society institution working throughout Africa since 1992 to bring creative African solutions to the challenges posed by conflict on the continent. ACCORD impacts political developments by bringing conflict resolution, dialogue, and development to the forefront as an alternative to protracted conflict. As part of its strategic objectives, ACCORD aims to generate, document, and share knowledge that positively impacts on conflict prevention, management, resolution, and transformation. www.accord.org.za

The Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) is a German political foundation committed to promoting democracy, the rule of law, social market economy, and international cooperation. Named after Germany’s first post-war Chancellor, Konrad Adenauer, the foundation operates globally as a think tank and provider of civic education. It supports political dialogue, policy research, and leadership development, with a strong focus on innovation, security, and democratic participation. www.kas.de/en/web/kenia

The Acacia Dialogue Center (ADC) is a pan-African think tank and policy advisory organisation rooted in indigenous African traditions of dialogue and community. Drawing inspiration from the symbolic Acacia tree, the Center promotes peacebuilding, climate resilience, good governance, and inclusive development. Through research, strategic partnerships, and capacity building, it supports governments and communities in addressing complex challenges across Africa with locally grounded, sustainable solutions. www.acaciadialogue.com

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