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Nikisimama Mtase...! Why Young People Must Step Up to Lead


“Nikisimama mtasema sina bibi…”
“Nikisimama mtasema sina pesa…”
“Nikisimama mtasema mimi ni mtoto…”

These phrases have become common justifications for avoiding leadership among Kenyan youth. But behind them lies a deeper fear—one planted by decades of exclusion, corruption, and generational betrayal.

There is a growing concern among young people in this country—and it is real.

Our current political class has lost touch with the aspirations, needs, and voice of a younger generation. We are the majority, yet treated like a minority in governance decisions. Studies project a global jobs gap for over 1 billion youth if things continue the same way. In Kenya, the signs are already here—skyrocketing unemployment, rising cost of living, and policy decisions that serve the elite few while sidelining millions.

Let’s talk facts:

  • The County Government of Vihiga recently proposed to spend Ksh. 3.8 million on a county anthem. Yes, an anthem. This, despite constitutional articles 185 and 186 clearly setting limits on such functions.

  • Meanwhile, at the national level, the President is building a Ksh. 1.2 Billion church at State House—on public land. This flies in the face of constitutional provisions on the separation of church and state.

  • Our so-called “youth empowerment programs” are mostly donor-funded, ill-designed, and temporary—NYOTA, Climate WorX, and others provide momentary relief, not sustainable opportunity.

This isn’t just bad policy—it’s a deliberate neglect of a generation.

So now, we must ask: what excuse do we have not to lead?

The truth is, youth leadership isn’t a choice anymore—it’s a necessity. If we don't step up, we will be forever governed by those who don’t understand our lives, our futures, or our struggles. And that’s why I’m calling on every young person reading this:

Run. Vote. Mobilize. Speak. Show up.

Let’s crowd the ballot with youth willing to lead. Let’s normalize youthful ambition. Let’s reject the myth that leadership is reserved for the wealthy, the married, the connected. Let’s build a generation that doesn’t ask for permission—but takes responsibility.

Personally, I commit to supporting any youth bold enough to pursue political leadership—regardless of outcome. Because your voice matters. Because your ideas matter. Because your future is at stake.

Let the old guard say what they will. Let them label, mock, or threaten. Tumechoka. Hatutaki tena. Na hatutangoja tena.

This is the time.
This is our time.
Na tukisimama… watajua hawajui!

About Author: Kevin Makova

Comments

Anonymous said…
I fully support your powerful message in "Nikisimama Mtase: Why Young People Must Lead." It is clear that young people possess the energy, creativity, and vision needed to drive meaningful change and build a better future for all of us. As highlighted by global voices, youth are not just the future—they are the present leaders who must be included in decision-making and given opportunities to thrive, innovate, and contribute to society. Your call to action resonates deeply with the urgent need to empower young people to take charge and transform our communities with hope and resilience. Keep inspiring and leading the way!
Sunday, July 6, 2025 at 3:34:00 AM PDT
Anonymous said…
What a thrilling,painstakingly well crafted rendition about the youths and governance.The youths of this country is such a formidable force that can't be ignored by the generation that proceed s us.If only we the youth could realize what misrepresentation and misgovervance does to us then we would prepare adequately through registering as voters across the country,from the fringes of chalbi to the andulating coastal towns.over and above showing up on the material day of voting.Finally sharing away from the ethnic cocoons we've always prescribed to,as we were meant to believe.
#theyouthsoughttospeakuplest!
Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at 6:26:00 AM PDT
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