Young people in Kenya have called for greater participation in governance beyond elections, urging leaders to create opportunities for them to influence policy, public participation and decision-making at both national and grassroots levels.
The youth made the call during a convening themed “Claiming Spaces and Shaping Kenya” held in Nairobi from September 21 to 25, 2026, and convened by the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK).
The meeting brought together young people and stakeholders to discuss governance, technology, entrepreneurship, civic participation and livelihoods.
They said young people should not only be mobilised to vote during elections but should have a continuous role in shaping policies and holding public institutions accountable.
“As Kenya approaches another electoral cycle, we affirm the importance of peaceful, informed and issue-based political participation,” they said.
The youth rejected misinformation, disinformation, political manipulation and ethnic mobilisation, warning that such practices could divide young people and communities ahead of the 2027 General Election.
They called on young people to understand electoral processes, verify information and participate peacefully before, during and after the elections.
The convening also raised concerns over the growing use of artificial intelligence and its potential to accelerate misinformation, propaganda and the spread of inaccurate information.
While welcoming AI and other emerging technologies as tools for learning, employment, entrepreneurship and creativity, the youth said technology must be used responsibly and should not replace human judgment.
They called for stronger digital literacy and greater awareness of data privacy and digital safety, particularly as more young people turn to digital platforms for work, business and civic engagement.
The youth also urged the Government and private sector to address barriers preventing young entrepreneurs from turning ideas into sustainable businesses.
They cited the high cost of devices and internet access, unreliable electricity, limited digital skills, inadequate mentorship, lack of capital and limited access to markets and business networks as some of the challenges facing young people.
They said more support was needed to help young people move from what they described as “hustle” to sustainable enterprises capable of creating jobs and generating lasting economic opportunities.
The youth further called on the Government, private sector, civil society, faith-based organisations and development partners to invest in affordable digital infrastructure, practical skills, financing, mentorship and market access.
“We cannot be told to innovate and create while the systems around us remain difficult to navigate,” they said.
They said young people were ready to work with other generations to address the country’s challenges by combining their creativity and innovation with the experience and knowledge of older generations.
