Young Kenyans' aspirations are intertwined with our nation's destiny

A man holds up a placard along Moi Avenue in Nairobi during anti-government protests on July 23, 2024. [Boniface Okendo, Standard]

Twenty years ago, Wangari Maathai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of her contribution to sustainable development, democracy and peace.  

Prof Maathai played an active role in the struggle for democracy in Kenya, which is as relevant today as it is was two decades ago. Throughout Kenya, the streets are alive with voices echoing a collective demand for a more accountable, transparent, and responsive government.

This is not merely a passing wave of discontent but a potent reminder that aspirations of our youths are intertwined with the destiny of our nation. Their demands for justice, equity, and opportunity are legitimate and imperative for a thriving future. 

This surge of determined young Kenyans, many in their 20s has stunned, gripped and inspired us, and shaken our nation's conscience.  They have shown courage in the face of adversity, demanding accountability and fair distribution of resources. They have spoken in one voice defeating the historical tribal and status lines that have hampered previous struggles for change. But this pivotal moment demands honest reflection and decisive action. 

To understand these protests, we have to acknowledge the frustrations that have simmered for years beneath the surface: frustrations with corruption that corrode our institutions and social services, with policies that seem to perpetuate inequality rather than alleviate it, and a political landscape that often feels detached from the daily realities of ordinary Kenyans.  

Since independence, public office has been a gateway to personal enrichment rather than public service. Politicians have showcased unexplained opulence that often cannot be accounted for courtesy of budgeted corruption and theft.

These occurrences are not an indictment of the past alone but a rallying cry for a fairer, equitable country where every Kenyan can aspire and achieve. They remind us that the promise of independence of a nation where justice and prosperity reign is yet to be fully realised.

Our democracy hinges on creating a society where every voice matters, not just during election seasons but daily. In a gross violation of their rights to assembly and peaceful protest that are enshrined in the Constitution, many youths agitating for change have been abducted, tortured and killed. We strongly condemn these harmful actions that seek to silence the citizens. 

At this time, we are motivated by Kenya’s pro-democracy heroes who endured persecution to forge a path towards multi-party democracy. They valued citizen participation over personal gain.

Prof Maathai was often inspired by the metaphor of the traditional African stool and its three legs representing peace, democratic space, and environmental stewardship, and the seat representing sustainable development.

“Democratic space" did not only mean political rights but a platform for citizens to freely express their ideas and aspirations without fear. This space nurtures creativity and collective problem-solving, crucial for safeguarding our natural resources and securing a sustainable future for generations to come. Just as a stool cannot stand without all its legs, sustainable development cannot be achieved without addressing these interconnected pillars of society. 

As we celebrate 20 years of the 2004 Noble Prize, awarded to a brave Kenyan, let us all unite to harness the boundless potential of Kenyans towards a country defined by justice and sustainability. Together, we can dismantle barriers to progress and build a nation where every citizen thrives.

This is our collective responsibility and our shared destiny - a Kenya that honours the sacrifices of the past while embracing the promise of tomorrow. In these uncertain times, the only thing we are certain of is that the strength and courage of our convictions must guide us. Let history remember us not only for what we resisted but for what we changed. The time for change is now, and the responsibility lies with each of us to heed the call.

Ms Wanjira is the Chairperson of Wangari Mathai Foundation. Ms Nyaguthii is Chairperson of Green Belt Movement