A change is long overdue- Bad Governance in Kenya

In the bustling streets of Nairobi and the vast landscapes of rural Kenya, a storm is brewing. This storm isn't a natural one, but rather a social and political upheaval spearheaded by the vibrant and discontented voices of Generation Z and Millennials. These young Kenyans, armed with smartphones and social media, are at the forefront of protests, demanding a fundamental change in how their country is governed. They are challenging the status quo, rejecting the endemic corruption, inefficiency, and apathy that have plagued Kenya for decades.

Bad governance in Kenya is a multifaceted issue, impacting every segment of society, but its most devastating effects are felt by the youth. With over 75% of the population under the age of 35, the future of Kenya is undeniably in the hands of its young people. Yet, this demographic faces insurmountable challenges due to poor leadership and governance.

Unemployment is one of the most glaring indicators of bad governance. Despite being one of the most educated and skilled generations, many young Kenyans find themselves without jobs. The education system, though producing graduates in large numbers, fails to align with the market demands, leading to a mismatch of skills. Moreover, the rampant corruption in both the public and private sectors means that jobs often go to the well-connected rather than the most qualified. This not only breeds resentment but also stifles innovation and progress.

Economic disenfranchisement extends beyond unemployment. For those who do manage to find work, the reality is often grim. Many are trapped in low-paying, unstable jobs in the informal sector, where labor laws are lax and exploitation is rampant. The lack of opportunities forces many young Kenyans to seek livelihoods abroad, resulting in a brain drain that further hampers the country's development.

The impact of bad governance is also felt in the realm of education. While primary and secondary education are theoretically free, hidden costs, inadequate facilities, and a lack of qualified teachers mean that many young people are denied a quality education. Tertiary education is even more out of reach for many, and those who do manage to attend universities often find themselves burdened with debt and facing uncertain futures.

Healthcare, another critical area, is in shambles. Young Kenyans, particularly those from low-income families, have limited access to quality healthcare. The public health system is chronically underfunded and mismanaged, leading to frequent shortages of essential medicines and equipment. Preventable diseases and health conditions remain rampant, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the youth.

The frustration and anger boiling over into the streets are not just about unemployment, education, or healthcare. They are about a deep-seated sense of injustice and betrayal. The older generation of leaders, many of whom were once hailed as liberators and reformers, have failed to live up to their promises. Instead, they have entrenched themselves in power, often through corrupt and undemocratic means, leaving little room for the younger generation to participate in the political process.

Yet, amidst the despair, there is hope. The protests led by Gen Z and Millennials are a testament to the resilience and determination of Kenya's youth. They are not just protesting against the failures of the past but are also advocating for a vision of a better, more equitable future. Through social media, they are mobilizing, educating, and empowering each other, creating a powerful movement that cannot be ignored.

In the end, the fight against bad governance is not just a fight for the youth but a fight for the soul of Kenya. It is a struggle to reclaim the promise of independence, to build a society that values integrity, justice, and opportunity for all. The voices of the youth, echoing in the streets and across social media, are a clarion call for change—a change that is long overdue