- The generation seems to be changing the system in the most exceptional of ways. Has the outside world opened them up to a different way of doing things? Or are they changing the culture from within?
- Political analyst Herman Manyora noted that this generation is not using any political influence or bothered with the tribe.
Image: ENOS TECHE
Gen Z is a group that has been labelled drug addicts, spoiled brats and cuddly creatures only used to the soft life. But hold on could this be true?
Generation Z is the first social generation that is said to have grown with access to the internet. Members of the Gen Z were born between 1997 and 2012. The Gen Z age range is anywhere from 11 to 26.
The generation seems to be changing the system in the most exceptional of ways. Has the outside world opened them up to a different way of doing things? Or are they changing the culture from within?
A number of Genz‘s that I spoke to said that they have silently endured economic hardships under the current government. This protest is a reflection and a result of the suffering Kenyans have faced especially the youth.
Abdi Shureim noted that Genz is not just a generation it’s a movement.
“We are very outspoken and courageous and this is giving us the ability to attract attention from people in power," he said.
He added that every member of Gen Z is affected by the Finance Bill, 2024 They see it as a threat to their future.
Their participation in the protests is a reaction to the potential negative outcomes of the Bill. They are no longer willing to remain silent and are mobilising others to protect their interests.
Another Gen Z, Joseph Mukunga said that contrary to what the government perceives, this generation is very educated.
“We are not just protesting out of ignorance but we are informed and motivated by a desire to safeguard our businesses and livelihoods,” He said.
Joseph said the youth are increasingly becoming involved in understanding and influencing governmental decisions.
Their actions demonstrate a sense of patriotism and a desire to actively participate in the governance of their country.
In an interview with Sheila Gatwiri, a student at Mt Kenya University she said that there is a need for change from the government.
“I believe it’s time we change this government, we must protest even if it’s going to take a year we must get the bad people out of power," she said.
Speaking for the millennial generation Robert Mundia said that as much as the government has acknowledged that no money and the taxes are being misused it does not add up to how some leaders live lavish lifestyles.
“These leaders are ignoring the struggles of Kenyans, not to mention the state of lifestyle they are displaying by owning expensive watches and luxury vehicles.”
Political analyst Herman Manyora noted that this generation is not using any political influence or bothered with the tribe.
They are being united by being the young generation as a whole.
“The problem with our politicians is they are so used to us, they know they can do anything and get away with it and now these young people have just woken up and they have nothing to lose," Manyora said.
"As for the rest of us, we want to play safe because we have a lot to lose. Our children are going to school, we have a mortgage to pay, we have jobs to protect, these young ones have nothing to lose we can call them carefree."
Kenya has recently experienced a significant uprising led by Generation Z, the country's youngest demographic.
They have mobilized in large-scale protests against the Finance Bill 2024.
The protests bore fruit as President William Ruto eventually conceded, by not signing into law the contentious Finance Bill, 2024.
These demonstrations signify more than just temporary dissent; they serve as a powerful message to the government that youth voices must be acknowledged and respected.
Narc Kenya party leader Martha Karua acknowledged that this generation represents a revolution that seeks to change the status quo where politicians only serve their interests and not that of the country.