By Betty Luke
Nearly two months after the country marked the anniversary of last year’s anti–Finance Bill protests, where dozens of young people were killed, Isiolo youths have demanded dignity, justice, and respect.
At a Gen Z–church leaders dialogue facilitated by the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), participants said the harsh economic situation, joblessness and lack of proper guidance has continued to weigh heavily on them and there was need for the church to chip in and assist them.
Youth leader John Kirimi noted there was an urgent need for the church to begin initiatives that would help solve some of the challenges the young people were facing.
“You cannot preach hope to someone who has no source of livelihood. The church should support the young people not only with mentorship but by creating income generating opportunities for them besides spiritual nourishment at the pulpit,”he said during the forum.
The youths said their frustrations were as a result of unemployment, over-taxation, and the exclusion of young people from leadership positions.
They accused President William Ruto of persistent failure to honour the promises he made during and after campaigns noting that they would not keep quiet until the political leaders govern with integrity.
“We will not keep quiet because doing so, will worsen the situation. Hope may feel little in our country, but we will keep speaking until things change,” Another youth leader Jackline Riungu shared.
NCCK Isiolo Branch Chairperson Nathan Maingi acknowledged the concerns, noting that many youths feel disconnected both from the government and the church.
“Young people want to be involved more, and we commit to create empowerment programs that can keep them engaged,” he said.
The AIPCA cleric added that the church has a duty to instill morals, mentor young people, and provide spaces where they feel heard and supported. He emphasized that healing the nation required inclusivity.
The session that was attended by dozens of representatives from NCCK members churches in Isiolo, was held at the Isiolo town Methodist Church and was moderated by renown journalist Waweru Wairimu.
Upper Eastern Region NCCK Woman representative Joyceline Kagendo said young people should not be punished for exercising their rights, calling for a constructive dialogue between the government and the youths.
“You cannot kill people for protesting over infringement of their rights. What you promise is not what you have been doing, especially for the young people,” she said, in a direct jab at the State.
She appealed to President Ruto to honor his pledges and roll out development projects that directly create opportunities for youth noting that reconciliation could not be achieved without addressing the economic hardships fueling discontent.
