The 21st century is experiencing a significant shift in global politics, largely driven by Gen Z—those born between 1997 and 2012—emerging as a powerful force for change.
Shaped by the internet, social media, and an interconnected world, this generation is challenging established norms and demanding new forms of engagement from their leaders. This is particularly evident in Africa, where the youth bulge is not just a demographic statistic but a defining element of the continent’s political landscape.
In countries like Kenya and Nigeria, Gen Z is transforming political discourse in revolutionary and instructive ways. These young people, who are educated, globally aware, and deeply conscious of their socio-political environment, are leading movements that challenge the status quo.
Their activism goes beyond traditional protests and is characterized by demands for transparency, accountability, and meaningful inclusion in governance.
In Kenya, recent protests have highlighted the power and determination of this new generation. Unlike typical demonstrations driven by political party loyalties or marginalized communities, these protests are led by young Kenyans who are tribeless, leaderless, and unaffiliated with any political entity. This generation is united by shared frustration with entrenched corruption, glaring inequality, and the ostentatious displays of wealth and nepotism that define the political elite.
The government’s heavy-handed response, including excessive use of police force, has only strengthened their resolve and threatened to erode the international goodwill Kenya has long enjoyed.
As a nation with significant geopolitical importance in East Africa, Kenya’s goodwill has been supported by a strong civil society, a vibrant free press, and growing confidence in independent institutions. However, this positive perception is now at risk as trust in these institutions is undermined by the government’s forceful approach.
Similarly, in Nigeria, protests have been driven by widespread discontent over issues such as hunger, poor governance, and the rising cost of living. Despite its vast oil wealth, Nigeria struggles with deep-seated inequality and mismanagement. The harsh police response has further fueled public outrage.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country and projected to become the third most populous nation globally by 2050, faces the challenge of meeting its people’s basic needs while addressing systemic failures. The protests highlight a profound disconnect between the government and the citizenry, underscoring the urgent need for reform and accountability.
These movements in Kenya and Nigeria reflect a broader trend across the continent: the rise of a politically conscious, socially engaged, and digitally savvy youth that is increasingly unwilling to accept the status quo. For African governments, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity.
The challenge is recognizing that traditional methods of political communication—press releases, formal press conferences, and top-down declarations—are no longer effective. The opportunity lies in embracing new forms of engagement that resonate with Gen Z.
Social media platforms like Twitter Spaces are becoming essential tools for this new generation. In Kenya, for example, young activists invited President William Ruto to a Twitter Space, demonstrating a preference for real-time, direct communication.
This decentralized platform allows for immediate interaction, unfiltered exchange of ideas, and direct accountability. It bypasses traditional gatekeepers and provides a space for leaders to connect with their constituents in a transparent and participatory manner. This type of engagement is exactly what Gen Z is seeking—a chance to be heard, to question, and to hold leaders accountable.
The broader lesson from these movements is that Gen Z is not interested in empty rhetoric or promises of future change. They demand immediate action and tangible results. They want to see an end to corruption, the creation of job opportunities, and a government that genuinely represents their interests. They call for inclusion not merely as beneficiaries of development programs but as active participants in shaping their future.
For African leaders, this means a fundamental shift in approach. Governments must move beyond outdated communication strategies and engage with young people in ways that are authentic and meaningful. This involves listening to their concerns, involving them in the decision-making process, and using platforms that facilitate open and honest dialogue.
The future of governance in Africa hinges on the ability to adapt to these new expectations and to build a political engagement model rooted in transparency, collaboration, and respect.
African governments can no longer afford to be complacent. They must recognize that Gen Z is not waiting for incremental changes or symbolic gestures. This generation demands real, immediate action and accountability.
Leaders must act with determination and foresight or risk being left behind by a generation ready to redefine the continent’s future. The stakes are high, and the opportunity is clear: embrace the new era of governance or face the consequences of inaction. The time for change is now, and the continent’s future depends on it.
