The 21st century is witnessing a seismic shift in global politics, driven by the emergence of Gen Z—individuals born between 1997 and 2012. This generation, shaped by the internet and social media, is challenging traditional political norms and demanding a new kind of engagement from their leaders. In Africa, where the youth demographic is a defining feature of the political landscape, this shift is particularly pronounced.
In countries like Kenya and Nigeria, Gen Z is not just participating in the political arena; they are revolutionizing it. These young people, who are well-educated, highly connected, and acutely aware of their socio-political environment, are spearheading movements that question and confront the established order.
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Their activism goes beyond conventional forms of protest. It is marked by a strong call for transparency, accountability, and meaningful involvement in governance. In Kenya, recent demonstrations have highlighted the power and determination of this generation. Unlike traditional protests driven by political factions or marginalized groups, these protests are led by young Kenyans who are independent, leaderless, and unaligned with any political party. They are united by a shared frustration with entrenched corruption, glaring inequality, and the ostentatious displays of wealth and nepotism prevalent among the political elite.
The Kenyan government’s heavy-handed response, including excessive police force, has only intensified the protests and jeopardized the country’s international goodwill. Kenya’s positive international image, bolstered by a robust civil society and vibrant press, is now at risk as trust in its institutions erodes under the government’s repressive tactics.
In Nigeria, the protests are driven by widespread dissatisfaction with poor governance, rising living costs, and persistent inequality despite the country’s vast oil resources. The government’s harsh response has further inflamed public outrage. As Africa’s most populous nation, projected to become the third most populous country by 2050, Nigeria faces a critical challenge in addressing basic needs while tackling systemic failures. The protests underscore a deep disconnect between the government and the people, highlighting an urgent need for reform and accountability.
These movements in Kenya and Nigeria are part of a broader continental trend: a new generation of politically conscious, socially engaged, and digitally savvy youth demanding a departure from the status quo. For African governments, this represents both a challenge and an opportunity.
The challenge is to recognize that traditional political communication methods—such as press releases and top-down declarations—are no longer effective. The opportunity lies in adopting new forms of engagement that resonate with Gen Z. Social media platforms, like Twitter Spaces, have become crucial tools for this generation. In Kenya, for example, young activists invited President William Ruto to a Twitter Space, demonstrating a preference for real-time, direct communication.
These platforms facilitate immediate interaction, unfiltered exchanges, and direct accountability. They bypass traditional gatekeepers and provide a space for leaders to connect with constituents transparently and inclusively. This is precisely what Gen Z seeks: an opportunity to be heard, to question, and to hold leaders accountable.
The key takeaway from these movements is that Gen Z demands more than empty promises and symbolic gestures. They want immediate, tangible results. They are calling for an end to corruption, the creation of job opportunities, and a government that genuinely reflects their interests. They are not just looking to benefit from development programs but to actively shape their future.
For African leaders, this necessitates a fundamental shift in approach. Governments must move beyond outdated strategies and engage with young people in authentic and meaningful ways. This involves listening to their concerns, involving them in decision-making, and using platforms that foster open and honest dialogue.
The future of governance in Africa depends on adapting to these new expectations and building a model of engagement grounded in transparency, collaboration, and respect. African leaders must act decisively and thoughtfully, or risk being overshadowed by a generation ready to redefine the continent’s future. The time for change is now, and the stakes are high. Embracing this new era of governance is essential for shaping a positive future for Africa.
