The Time is Now: Why Kenyan Youth Should Lead in Politics and Voting

 Why Kenyan Youth Should Take Part in the Political Space and Actively Participate in Voting and Political Parties.

In Kenya, the role of youth in shaping the political landscape has never been more important. With over 75% of the population being under the age of 35, the youth represent the largest demographic in the country. However, despite their significant numbers, the active involvement of young people in the political process remains limited. This must change. Active participation in voting and political parties offers Kenyan youth an opportunity to influence the policies that will shape their future. In this article, we will explore why it is crucial for young Kenyans to engage in the political space.

1. Empowerment Through Political Participation

Participating in politics is a powerful tool for self-empowerment. By voting and joining political parties, young people in Kenya can directly influence the decisions that affect their lives. The youth face numerous challenges, from unemployment to inadequate healthcare, but political participation is the first step in advocating for policies that address these issues. Voting allows youths to choose leaders who understand their concerns, while political parties offer a platform for youths to get involved in decision-making processes. Political participation not only empowers youth but also enables them to take control of the policies that impact their present and future.

2. Shaping the Future of Kenya

The future of Kenya is inextricably linked to the choices made today. From climate change to economic policies, decisions made now will affect the youth for years to come. By engaging in the political process, young people can ensure that their voices are heard when it comes to the issues that matter most. Whether through voting for candidates who prioritize youth employment, healthcare, or education, or by becoming actively involved in political parties, young Kenyans have the opportunity to shape the country’s direction.

As digital natives and creative problem-solvers, the youth possess the potential to drive innovation and create sustainable solutions for Kenya’s future. Their involvement in politics can help ensure that Kenya's development is inclusive, forward-thinking, and relevant to the needs of the next generation.

3. Creating More Representation in Leadership

Historically, Kenyan political leadership has been dominated by older generations, which has sometimes resulted in policies that do not fully reflect the needs of the youth. Young people represent a significant portion of the population, yet they are often underrepresented in decision-making bodies. Engaging in the political space provides youths with the opportunity to advocate for more inclusive leadership. It also opens the door for young people to step into leadership positions themselves. Political parties, in particular, can serve as a stepping stone for youth to rise to positions where they can influence policy directly.

By becoming more involved in politics, the youth can ensure that they are not merely the recipients of policies, but also the architects of change.

4. Advocating for Change

Kenya is a country with immense potential, but it also faces a number of challenges, from high unemployment rates to inadequate infrastructure. These challenges, however, are not insurmountable. Through active political participation, young people can push for the changes they want to see in the country. Whether through voting for candidates who advocate for economic reforms or by supporting policies that address social inequality, youth participation in politics is essential for driving meaningful change.

Furthermore, youth-led movements in Kenya have shown the power of collective action in pushing for change. From advocating for better educational opportunities to demanding greater transparency in governance, young people have demonstrated their ability to spark movements for social justice. Political involvement helps convert activism into policy action, creating long-term solutions to the issues that matter most.

5. Building Critical Thinking and Civic Responsibility

Active political participation fosters a culture of critical thinking and civic responsibility. It encourages youth to engage with and analyze political issues, evaluate policy proposals, and consider the broader social, economic, and environmental impacts of decisions. This not only makes young people more informed citizens but also ensures that they are better equipped to hold leaders accountable.

In addition, participating in political processes enables youths to understand the complexities of governance and how decisions are made. This knowledge helps cultivate an engaged and responsible citizenry—one that actively contributes to the development of a transparent, accountable, and democratic society.

6. Access to Opportunities and Networking

The political space is not just for those who want to run for office—it offers a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional growth. Political involvement allows youth to build leadership skills, network with like-minded individuals, and gain valuable experience in areas like public speaking, campaign management, and strategic planning. These skills are transferable to many other sectors, from business to social activism, and can open doors for career advancement.

Moreover, political engagement provides youth with access to resources, initiatives, and funding opportunities that can help them succeed in their personal and professional endeavors. By advocating for policies that support entrepreneurship, job creation, and access to education, young people can create an environment where they can thrive and contribute to the national economy.

7. Influencing National and Global Decisions

Kenya is an active participant in global discussions, especially on issues like climate change, trade, and human rights. The youth, with their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, have the potential to influence these discussions and advocate for policies that promote sustainable development, peace, and equity.

By becoming involved in the political space, young people can amplify their voices not only at the national level but also on the global stage. Their participation in the decision-making processes can ensure that Kenya plays a more significant role in addressing global challenges while simultaneously pushing for solutions that benefit the youth both locally and globally.

8. Creating a Brighter Future for All

Ultimately, youth participation in politics is about more than just advocating for individual interests—it’s about creating a better, more inclusive future for all Kenyans. By getting involved, young people help create policies that foster equality, justice, and opportunities for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or socio-economic status.

By engaging in political processes, the youth play a crucial role in shaping a Kenya where the needs of the people are met, governance is transparent, and the future is one of growth, prosperity, and unity. Their involvement ensures that Kenya's political system remains responsive to the needs of the people and aligned with the principles of democracy, fairness, and inclusivity.

Conclusion

The youth of Kenya are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the leaders of today. Through voting, joining political parties, and advocating for change, young people have the power to shape the policies that will define Kenya’s future. The time to act is now. By engaging in the political process, Kenyan youth can ensure that their voices are heard and that they play an active role in shaping a country that reflects their aspirations and potential. Together, we can build a Kenya that works for everyone, especially the youth who will carry the torch forward.

This article was written by Sege Peter, a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and political participation and tech enthusiast.