SweDev programme director Emma Elfversson (left) and Kenya’s former Vice President, Kalonzo Musyoka (right). Photo: Kristine Höglund
On 2 October 2024, Kenya’s former Vice President, Kalonzo Musyoka, delivered a compelling guest lecture at the Department of Government at Uppsala University. The lecture was moderated by SweDev’s programme director, Emma Elfversson.
In his lecture, Mr. Musyoka, known for his extensive political career and commitment to international diplomacy, emphasised the critical role that today’s youth can play in shaping the future of their country.
Mr. Musyoka began by highlighting a pivotal moment in Kenya’s education system: the introduction of the free primary education program in 2002, which gave hope to young people that hard work would lead to better job opportunities and better standards of living. Further, under the Vision 2030 plan, Kenya experienced rapid economic growth and advancements in financial services and internet connectivity. However, challenges like corruption and rising tax burdens arose and left many young Kenyans disillusioned.
It is against this backdrop, he argued, that Generation Z emerged as a powerful force for activism. The protests against the 2024 finance bill showcase their determination to hold their government accountable. Utilising social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, or X (formerly Twitter), they created a call to action against the bill (#rejectfinancebill2024), leading some political representatives to change their votes. Unsatisfied with minor concessions, the protestors rose to action by occupying the streets of Kenya on 18 June 2024, a move Mr. Musyoka suggested resonates with the quote by Thomas Jefferson: ‘’when injustice becomes law, nonviolent resistance becomes duty’’.
The outcomes of these protests have been significant: the resignation of the police director, the disbandment of the cabinet, and the acknowledgment of the youth’s demands. Mr. Musyoka argued that Generation Z has proven its ability to influence Kenya’s political landscape and has inspired similar movements across Africa, particularly in Nigeria and Ghana, where young people are advocating for their rights.
Mr. Musyoka ended his inspiring lecture by reminding the participants that education, tech-savviness and knowledge matter, and inaction is not an option. Generation Z’s revolt at home and abroad, he argued, are demonstrating that the youth will no longer stay silent regarding the state of their countries’ affairs.
