The report “Kenya Youth Quake: A New Era of Political Awakening”. is officially launched!
This report offers a thorough examination of the Generation Z led protests in Kenya. These protests, which began on June 18, 2024, were sparked by opposition to the Finance Bill 2024, but have since evolved into a broader movement reflecting deeper societal grievances and demands for systemic change. The Finance Bill sought to raise a proposed KES 348.975 billion in revenue.
The report begins by defining the distinct characteristics of Generation Z and Millennials, emphasizing their proficiency in digital mobilization as a key tool in advancing their demands. It systematically outlines the protesters' key demands, which include economic reform, addressing youth unemployment, tackling systemic corruption, and holding the government accountable for unfulfilled electoral promises.
To provide context, the report traces Kenya's history of political protests, highlighting the recurring theme of broken promises and the controversial nature of the Finance Bill 2024 as a central catalyst for widespread discontent. It also examines recent developments, including the government's response, which has involved deploying security forces, leading to increased violence and casualties. The report critiques the government's efforts to control the narrative through media restrictions and social media censorship, actions that have been widely condemned by both local and international human rights organizations.
In exploring the underlying motivations for the protests, the report delves into the impact of proposed taxes, pervasive youth unemployment, economic inequality, and systemic corruption. The broader implications of the protests, and their potential to reshape Kenya’s economy, political landscape, and social fabric are also assessed. The report emphasizes the urgent need for inclusive policies that directly address the grievances of the youth and marginalized communities.
The report also includes a strategic foresight section, employing tools like the Futures Wheel to explore potential scenarios stemming from the protests. This section assesses how the movement could influence Kenya's future, highlighting possible trajectories that range from intensified government crackdowns to meaningful reforms in response to the demands of the youth. It also includes a comparative analysis of similar youth-led movements in other countries, and gives insights into the potential trajectories and outcomes of the Kenyan protests.
The report concludes with targeted recommendations for key stakeholders, including the President, Parliament, youth groups, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, the Kenya Police, religious institutions, international organizations, the media, and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority. These recommendations are designed to promote constructive dialogue, drive meaningful reforms, and address the root causes of the protests, ultimately paving the way for a more just and equitable society.
In sum, the report positions the "Kenya Youth Quake" as a defining moment in the nation’s socio-political evolution, with the potential to usher in significant change, provided that the demands and concerns of the youth are met with genuine reform and inclusive governance.
The Youth Cafe Publication series in support of the right to assembly, demonstrations and picketing as outlined in Article 37 of the Constitution of Kenya and Article 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Kenya is a signatory. Get in touch with us.