Richard Miruka believes that Kenya’s young people have reached a point where they must move beyond demanding change and begin taking part in shaping it.
Speaking during a recent episode of Political Ringside, the software engineer and community leader shared his vision for youth leadership, the future of the National Youth Council (NYC), and the role young people could play as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.
The discussion came at a time when youth participation in national affairs remains a major topic across Kenya. The 2024 anti-government protests demonstrated the power of young people to organize, speak out, and influence public debate.
While the demonstrations highlighted frustrations over governance and economic challenges, they also raised an important question about what comes next.
For Richard Miruka, the next step is for more young people to move from the streets into leadership positions where they can help shape policies and decisions.
Richard is currently seeking the presidency of the National Youth Council, a body created to represent the interests of young people across the country. He believes the council has the potential to become a stronger voice for Kenyan youth if it is led by people who understand their everyday challenges and are committed to finding practical solutions.
His own journey has been shaped by experiences from different parts of the country.
Richard was born and raised in several regions, including Kaloleni, Kisii, and later spent much of his life in Kibera.
These experiences exposed him to different communities and gave him a broader understanding of the issues affecting young people from various backgrounds.
Away from politics, Richard works as a software engineer and has invested heavily in technology education.
Through programs he runs in Kibera, more than a thousand young people have received training in digital skills.
The initiative aims to equip them with knowledge that can improve their chances of finding employment, starting businesses, and building stable careers.
He believes that empowering young people with practical skills is one of the most effective ways of reducing unemployment and creating opportunities.
Leadership, according to Richard, is not defined by holding a position or title.
Instead, he says it is measured by the ability to help others succeed and improve their lives.
That belief has guided his work in the community and continues to shape his leadership ambitions.His interest in leadership started early in life.
Throughout primary school, high school, and university, Richard held various leadership positions that helped him develop confidence and responsibility.
As the firstborn in a family of 11 children, he also carried responsibilities at home from a young age. Looking after his younger siblings whenever his parents were away taught him discipline, patience, and accountability.
Richard also spoke about the importance of family in building society. Coming from a family with roots in different communities and now raising a young son of his own, he believes strong families help shape responsible citizens.
In his view, values such as respect, unity, and responsibility begin at home before they are reflected in society.
Reflecting on the lessons from the 2024 youth protests, Richard said many young Kenyans felt excluded from important national conversations.
He believes those concerns should encourage more young people to seek leadership positions instead of remaining on the sidelines.
He argues that institutions such as the National Youth Council should become platforms where young voices are heard and their ideas translated into action.
He also noted that leadership should not be judged only by age. While experience remains valuable, he believes every generation has something meaningful to contribute.
Having worked with people from different age groups and backgrounds, Richard says effective leadership comes from listening, working together, and making decisions that benefit everyone.
As Kenya moves closer to the 2027 General Election, discussions about the role of young people are expected to become even more important.
Richard believes the country has a generation that is talented, educated, and ready to lead if given the opportunity. However, he says lasting change will require more than passion alone.
Young people must continue building their skills, remain united, and participate actively in leadership and governance.His message throughout the interview was one of responsibility and hope.
Rather than waiting for others to solve the country’s challenges, he encouraged young Kenyans to prepare themselves for leadership by gaining knowledge, serving their communities, and working together.
He believes meaningful change takes time, but with commitment and active participation, Kenya’s youth can play a greater role in shaping the country’s future.
