On June 25th the streets of Nairobi and other Kenyan cities echoed with the chants and footfalls of a generation that refuses to be silenced. Thousands of young people turned out to mark the one year anniversary of the Gen Z movement; a movement that began as spontaneous protests but has since evolved into one of the most significant youth-led civic actions in recent Kenyan history.
But this was more than a symbolic anniversary. It was a vivid demonstration of the power and potential of youth in shaping national development.
A Generation Awakens
Over the years development conversations in Kenya and across the Global South have too often treated youth as passive recipients of aid, jobs and opportunities. But what we witnessed yesterday was a generation that is not waiting to be included. They are taking up space, raising their voices and pushing the needle on national accountability.
Kenya’s Gen Z is digitally connected, politically aware and socially mobilized. They’re using social media as a tool for activism and are redefining civic participation in real time. From Twitter threads and Instagram stories to TikTok explainers these youth are creating narratives, challenging power and demanding better governance.
Development Is Not Just Economic Growth
True development goes beyond GDP numbers and foreign direct investment. It touches on social justice, equity, freedom of expression and citizen participation. The 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasize leaving no one behind and that includes ensuring youth are not just seen but heard, not just included but empowered.
Yesterday’s Gen Z turnout was a reflection of SDG 16 (Peace Justice and Strong Institutions) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). These young people are not asking for handouts they’re asking for systems that work, leaders who listen and policies that reflect the needs of future generations.
Why This Matters
Kenya’s population is predominantly young. According to the 2019 census over 75% of Kenyans are under the age of 35. This makes youth engagement not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity. Ignoring them means stalling national progress. Engaging them means unlocking new energy, innovation and leadership.
The Gen Z anniversary was not just a day of protest it was a day of possibility. It was a grassroots led reminder that sustainable development cannot happen without inclusive governance, youth participation and institutional accountability.
Moving Forward
It’s time for development actors—government agencies, international organizations, donors and civil society—to rethink how they engage with youth. Instead of tokenistic involvement there should be co-creation. Instead of top down programming there should be grassroots consultation. Instead of youth being “beneficiaries” they must be seen as partners in progress.
The events of June 25th remind us that young people are no longer on the sidelines of change. They are at the center of it.
Let’s not just watch them. Let’s work with them.
