Why Kenya’s Gen Z is Shaking Up the Anti-Tax Movement

If you’re not ready to adapt as a leader, picture yourself in the not-so-distant future, reporting to a boss from Generation Z popularly known as Gen Z. Brace yourself for constant feedback and a work pace that’ll leave you breathless. It’s hard to believe, but it’s true!

After the draft Finance Bill for 2024 was published, social media enthusiasts—primarily young, creative, knowledgeable, and energetic individuals from Generation Z—immediately took to making video explainers. These videos quickly spread like wildfire on platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Thanks to support from influential Kenyan social media personalities, their content trended for days, helping the majority of Kenyans understand and criticize what they now saw as a punitive bill.

In response, the president’s economic adviser, Mr. David Ndii, dismissively referred to the young protesters as clueless “cool kids” who benefited from ill-gotten wealth. Kimani Ichung’wah, the Majority Leader of Kenya Kwanza in the National Assembly, labeled them as iPhone-toting demonstrators who arrived at protests in Ubers and then retreated to KFC for a meal before heading home. Even UDA’s Member of Parliament for Dagoretti South, John Kiarie, mocked them, claiming their large numbers in Nairobi’s Central Business District were the result of AI-generated hype. They underestimated the power of social media and forgot that the people’s power is greater than those in authority! Little did they know what was about to hit the government. It’s something they won’t believe!

Gen Z, a united force

Last week, on Tuesday and Thursday, Gen Z flexed their strength, unity, and tactical skills by mobilizing themselves in major towns throughout Kenya. They stood up against the oppressive taxation imposed by the Kenya Kwanza government. In the face of shootings, intimidation, and arrests by the police, they have continued their activism undeterred. They have revolutionized protest through the use of technology, a new form of resistance in Kenya. So, who exactly is Generation Z, and why should the Kenya Kwanza regime be concerned about them?

Also Read: Ruto Addresses Gen Z-Led Anti-Finance Bill Protests, Gives Way Foward

Starting from this week’s Tuesday, June 25th, 2024—dubbed “Super Tuesday”—and continuing as a weekly protest, Gen Z is back with a clear message and a plan of action. They are more organized, energized, and bolder than ever, promising to occupy all government establishments, including the heavily guarded Statehouse, as well as churches, restaurants, bars, streets, and online platforms. It’s something they won’t believe!

Generation Z, often abbreviated as Gen Z, refers to the generation succeeding Millennials and preceding Generation Alpha. While the exact birth years can vary slightly depending on sources, Generation Z typically includes individuals born from the mid-1990s to the early 2010s. They possess unique characteristics and defining traits that make them both admirable and formidable.

What’s working for Generation Z

They are digital natives, growing up with widespread access to technology like smartphones, social media, and the internet from a young age. They are highly skilled in using technology for communication, learning, entertainment, and activism. Social media platforms are their primary channels for sharing information and connecting with others.

Inclusivity and diversity are at the core of Generation Z’s values. They embrace diversity in all its forms—ethnicity, religion, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, and more. They prioritize inclusivity and actively support social causes that promote equality and representation.

They are all about supporting policies and leaders who embody these values. Governments that don’t prioritize these things face some serious criticism and opposition from this generation.

Gen Z is all about being practical and realistic. Growing up during uncertain economic times like the 2008 financial crisis and subsequent recessions, they tend to be cautious and down-to-earth when it comes to money and career choices. Stability and practicality are their top priorities.

Push for transparency

Their craving for transparency and accountability is no joke. The folks in Generation Z are all about demanding transparency from those in power and institutions. They don’t take kindly to corruption or leaders who dodge responsibility, and they’ll actively challenge those behaviors.

Also Read: UDA MP Forced to Apologize After Trashing Gen Zs Over Protests

Even though they’re still young, Gen Z is super politically engaged and eager to take part in civic activities. They’re more likely to vote and get involved in political discussions than previous generations at their age. They’re not shy about protesting to make their voices heard and influence government decisions. They see protesting as a legitimate way to be part of democracy and keep leaders in check. They’re also up to date on global events and movements, which can shape their views on local politics and policies.

They’ve got a whole global perspective going on. Thanks to the internet and social media, Gen Z has a big picture outlook. They’re in the know about global issues, trends, and cultures, and that shapes how they see the world and what they care about when it comes to social, political, and environmental stuff.

Do not ignore them 

The Kenya Kwanza regime, just like any government, really needs to take Generation Z seriously. They’ve got mad technological skills, a major influence on social media, a knack for activism, a demand for transparency, and they’re all about getting involved in politics. Plus, they’ve got their own set of values and a global perspective. Ignoring or alienating this generation could lead to some serious challenges and opposition because they’re not going anywhere. They are going to keep demanding accountability, fairness, and positive change in their society.

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