Kenya's democratic journey has been marked by significant milestones, including the repeal of Section 2A in 1991 and the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution. These developments have expanded citizens' participation in leadership and governance. As the country approaches the 2027 General Election, the focus is on who is shaping the narrative that will define Kenya's political future. The commemoration of International Democracy Day on September 15, 2026, brought together stakeholders, including young people, to assess the country's progress.
Young people in Kenya make up approximately 57 per cent of the country's voting bloc, making them a crucial constituency. In 2024, they mobilized in the digital space to read and explain the Finance Bill clause by clause, organized demonstrations, and provided medical and legal aid to protesters. These efforts led to the withdrawal of the legislation, largely through peaceful assembly. Two years later, they continue to engage in civic activities, such as crowdsourcing budget documents and tracking bursary disbursements.
Despite their online activism, young people face challenges in translating their digital voice into durable democratic gains. This requires sustained engagement with slower and less visible processes. Power is exercised at the registration desk and polling station, yet IEBC data shows that the enhanced 30-day registration drive fell short, with young people accounting for just 32.65 per cent of new registrations. This may reflect frustrations with electoral politics, including perceptions that young people's votes are courted at rallies but their participation in governance is limited.
For decades, campaigns have relied on handouts, reinforcing patronage and treating citizens as clients. Participatory democracy requires meaningful public involvement, stronger county forums, and a properly resourced National Youth Council. Young Kenyans need credible institutions, accountable government, and a trustworthy electoral process. Accountability for alleged abductions and disappearances of protesters in 2024 and 2025 is essential to rebuilding trust and realizing the democratic promise of the 2010 Constitution.
The Standard Group Plc, a leading multi-media house in Kenya, recognizes the importance of youth participation in democratic processes. As a media organization, it provides a platform for young people to express their views and engage in national discourse. The Group's investments in media platforms, including newspaper print operations, television, radio broadcasting, digital, and online services, enable it to reach a wide audience and promote informed discussions.
To effectively engage young people in governance, the government and other stakeholders must address their concerns and create opportunities for meaningful participation. This includes ensuring that young people's voices are heard in decision-making processes and that they have access to information and resources that enable them to participate effectively. By doing so, Kenya can harness the energy and creativity of its youth to build a more inclusive and sustainable democracy.
Ultimately, the future of Kenya's democracy depends on the ability of its leaders to engage young people and create a more participatory and accountable system of governance. By working together, young people, government, and other stakeholders can build a brighter future for Kenya, one that is characterized by democratic values, social justice, and economic prosperity.
Key points
- Young people in Kenya are actively engaging in democratic processes, but face challenges in translating online activism into votes and meaningful participation in governance.
