As Kenya marks International Women’s Day, a powerful force is reshaping the nation—Gen Z women. Digitally connected, socially conscious, and fiercely determined, these young women are not just pushing for change; they are demanding it. From the streets to the boardrooms, from science labs to social activism, they are breaking barriers and rewriting the rules.
The 2024 Finance Bill Protests: A Defining Moment
In June 2024, Kenya witnessed an unprecedented youth-led uprising against the Finance Bill.
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Dubbed the Gen Z Revolution, the protests were fueled by digital mobilization, with young women playing a pivotal role.
Armed with smartphones, placards, and unwavering resolve, they stood at the frontlines, leading chants, organizing resources, and amplifying the movement online.
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“We weren’t just fighting against taxes; we were fighting for our future,” says Cynthia, a 22-year-old activist who mobilized hundreds in Nairobi.
“For too long, decisions have been made without us. That era is over.”
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Women like Njeri Mwangi, a university student, became icons of resistance, using TikTok and Twitter to document police brutality and expose government excesses.
Their courage in the face of tear gas and arrests proved that Kenya’s young women are no longer content with silence.
Gen Z Women in Politics: Taking the Lead
Kenya’s political arena has long been dominated by men, but Gen Z women are forcing their way in.
The success of Linet Chepkorir “Toto”, who became Bomet’s Woman Representative at just 24, signals a shift.
Her campaign, powered by social media and grassroots support, proved that young women can win, even in patriarchal strongholds.
Despite this progress, challenges persist. Cyberbullying, financial barriers, and cultural resistance deter many from running.
“Politics is rough, but if we don’t take charge, others will decide our future,” says Amina, a 23-year-old law student planning to run for office in 2027.
Calls to Action:
Political parties must support young female candidates with funding and mentorship.
Social media movements should transition from online activism to real political engagement.
Electoral bodies must enforce gender quotas to ensure equal representation.
Gen Z Women in Business: Innovating and Thriving
In Nairobi’s tech hubs and rural villages alike, young women are driving Kenya’s entrepreneurial revolution. Violet Njoki, founder of Mindset Africa, uses artificial intelligence to tackle youth unemployment, while Michelle Ntalami has built Marini Naturals into a global beauty brand.
But the road to success is not easy. Women entrepreneurs still struggle with access to capital, societal expectations, and digital literacy gaps.
“I was told to ‘focus on marriage, not business,’” says Aisha, a 22-year-old e-commerce founder.
“Now, I employ 15 women and own my own home.”
Calls to Action:
Banks and investors must offer low-interest loans to young female entrepreneurs.
Schools should teach financial literacy and digital marketing from an early age.
Corporations like Safaricom must create incubators for women-led startups.
Gen Z Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM): Smashing Stereotypes
For years, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields were seen as male-dominated. Not anymore. Young women like Nelly Cheboi, founder of TechLit Africa, are equipping rural girls with coding skills, while Faith Odhiambo, 24, made history as the youngest president of the Law Society of Kenya.
Yet, systemic barriers remain—period poverty, early pregnancies, and cultural biases still force many girls out of school. In Turkana, for example, only 10% of girls complete secondary education.
Calls to Action:
Expand scholarship programs for girls in marginalized communities.
Combat period poverty with free sanitary products in schools.
Tech giants like Google and Microsoft must fund STEM labs in rural areas.
Digital Activism: Turning Hashtags into Change
The 2024 protests showed that social media is not just for entertainment—it’s a weapon for justice. Movements like #RejectFinanceBill2024, #EndFemicideKE, and #MeTooKenya have forced lawmakers to listen. Women like Elsa Majimbo have used their platforms to challenge stereotypes, proving that digital spaces can be both empowering and revolutionary.
But online activism comes with risks—cyberbullying, doxxing, and government crackdowns. “Speaking out online can be dangerous,” says Linet, a 21-year-old digital rights advocate. “But we refuse to be silenced.”
Calls to Action:
Social media platforms must strengthen protections against harassment.
NGOs should offer digital security training for women activists.
Online activism must translate into legal reforms and tangible policy changes.
Gen Z Women in Sports: Breaking Records, Breaking Barriers
From Faith Kipyegon, the reigning middle-distance queen, to Angela Okutoyi, Kenya’s first Grand Slam tennis champion, Gen Z women are making history in sports. Yet, female athletes still earn less than their male counterparts and struggle with inadequate sponsorship.
“I was told ‘sports aren’t for girls,’” says Chemutai, a 19-year-old marathoner from Eldoret. “Now, I’m a national champion.”
Calls to Action:
Corporations must invest equally in women’s sports.
Schools should establish more girls’ teams and combat gender discrimination.
Also Read: Want to Get More Women to Start Their Own Businesses? Here’s What It Takes
The government must enforce equal pay and media coverage for female athletes.
The Future is Now: Gen Z Women, Take Your Place
To every young woman in Kenya—from Kibera’s slums to Turkana’s arid plains, from Mombasa’s coastline to Kisumu’s streets—your time is now.
In politics, run for office—your voice matters.
In business, innovate—your ideas can transform Kenya.
Also Read: Against the Odds: Four Women Share How They Forged Careers in Science
In education, study science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—your mind is limitless.
Online, speak boldly—your activism saves lives.
On the field, compete fiercely—your strength inspires millions.
The road ahead will not be easy, but Gen Z women are no strangers to struggle. They carry the resilience of Mekatilili wa Menza, the vision of Wangari Maathai, and the audacity of Charity Ngilu.
This International Women’s Day, Kenya’s Gen Z women are not just dreaming of a better future—they’re building it.
The future is female. The future is Gen Z. The future is Kenya.
