The 2024 Gen Z protests in Kenya brought a wave of public attention that went beyond the streets. These demonstrations, led mostly by young people, were focused on issues like poor governance, tough economic conditions, and demands for social justice.
What made them stand out was not just their size or energy, but the way they sparked deep conversations across generations. While some were surprised by the intensity of the protests, others saw them as a sign that the youth were ready to speak up about the country’s future.
To get a clearer understanding of how Kenyans felt about this moment, especially those aged 30 and above, Mwelekeo Insights carried out a detailed survey. The organization, known for its opinion polling work, aimed to capture a wide range of views.
The results showed a mix of emotions there was both admiration and worry. A large majority, about 77%, praised Gen Z for being politically alert and for taking part in national conversations.
Many older people respected how the youth were managing in a struggling economy, especially through modern ways like freelancing online or creating digital content. This ability to adapt was seen as a strength in challenging times.
However, not all opinions were positive. Only 48% of respondents believed that Gen Z follows traditional organizational values and work ethics.
Some comments from the survey described Gen Z as bold and fearless, but others saw them as too quick to leave jobs or unwilling to follow established rules.
This highlighted a growing tension between old ways of thinking and new lifestyles. Still, more than half of those surveyed around 57% felt that Gen Z has leadership potential. Many said mentorship could help bridge the differences between generations and support the youth in their journey toward taking on more responsibility.
Mwelekeo Insights has made a name for itself by digging into topics that matter to everyday Kenyans. They aim to represent voices from all walks of life by using surveys and data collection methods that ensure fairness and balance.
Their research doesn’t stop at politics. They’ve also looked into changing cultural views, like how men feel about paying bride price or why young women are rethinking marriage due to financial concerns.
By exploring these issues, they help people better understand how society is changing. To make this information more accessible, Mwelekeo Insights launched a video platform called Mwelekeo TV.
Through interviews and discussions, they share findings in simple, clear language. Episodes often include topics like traditional gender roles, youth protests, or the changing view of work.
They turn data into conversations people can relate to and learn from. This makes their research more useful, not just for leaders and decision-makers, but for everyone interested in Kenya’s future.
Their upcoming polls are expected to continue tracking these shifts, giving more insight into how the country is growing and adjusting. Through their careful, inclusive work, Mwelekeo Insights shows how listening to a wide range of voices can help guide progress.
