Thousands of energetic Gen Zs on Thursday morning thronged Nyayo Stadium for Kenya’s 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations, marking one of the largest youth turnouts witnessed at a national event in recent years.
The youthful crowd, waving flags and donning patriotic colours, made their message clear as they expressed both admiration and expectations for President William Ruto.
One young attendee captured the mood of her peers, saying, “Sisi Gen Zs tunampenda Rais William Ruto… Tunataka aangalie maslahi yetu na alete mabadiliko ya kutujali.”
Her sentiments reflected a wider call from the youth who are increasingly vocal about governance, economic opportunities, and their role in shaping the country’s future.
The early-morning excitement at Nyayo Stadium signaled not just celebration but a renewed sense of civic engagement among Kenya’s younger generation.
Many said they turned up to not only mark the national day but to show the President that the youth remain hopeful—yet watchful—about the promises made on jobs, innovation, and cost of living.
Several youths interviewed at the stadium said they want the government to prioritise policies that directly uplift them, including improved access to education, fair employment opportunities, and support for creative and digital sectors where many Gen Zs are carving new career paths. O
thers called for more inclusion in decision-making, arguing that their voices should influence national planning.
This year’s Jamhuri Day theme, will centre on innovation and digital transformation, appeared to resonate with the youthful crowd.
Many said they expect the President to match words with action by expanding programs that support technology, online entrepreneurship, and start-ups.
As the celebrations continued, the message from Gen Zs remained unified: they admire the President but expect tangible change.
Their presence at Nyayo Stadium underscored the growing political weight of Kenya’s young population, a demographic increasingly determined to shape the direction of the nation.
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