Kenya’s Youth Mobilize for Vote: ‘Our Cards Are Ready!’

Kenya’s Youth Demand Change Through Ballot Box

Nairobi, Kenya – As Kenya gears up for its general election next year, a powerful youth-led movement named Nicocadi is igniting a push for young people to register to vote. The initiative, whose name translates to “I have my card ready,” aims to harness the energy of the nation’s youth, many of whom were active in recent street protests, and channel it into political action. This movement believes that the ballot box is the ultimate tool to shape the country’s future and hold leaders accountable.

From Protests to Voter Registration

Many young Kenyans who participated in last year’s Gen Z protests, which saw significant demonstrations in Nairobi and even an occupation of the Kenyan parliament, feel that their previous efforts did not yield the desired results. Tragically, these protests led to the deaths of 65 demonstrators in clashes with police. Photojournalist Alan Sadmba, a founder of the Nicocadi initiative, believes that the sacrifices made during these protests should not be in vain. He sees voter registration as a “silent revolution,” a way to honor those lost and prevent further loss of life by electing better leaders.

“There’s revolution by the bullet and the silent revolution. We just going to cast our vote… We lost a lot of young Kenyans who could have actually casted their vote come 2027. And now we don’t want to lose more lives. We want to go to the ballot and demonstrate by casting our votes by voting out the bad leaders.”

The Nicocadi movement is spreading a clear message: “I have my card ready.” This phrase signifies a readiness to participate and make a difference in the upcoming elections. The organizers emphasize that many young people lack voter cards, and they are determined to change this. They believe that by registering and voting, young Kenyans can take control of their leadership and prevent themselves from being “misused” by the current political system.

A Crucial Moment for Democracy

Some participants view the upcoming election as a critical juncture for Kenyan democracy. They express a sense of urgency, stating that this might be the last chance for young people to believe in the democratic process if it doesn’t deliver change next year. This sentiment fuels the “full throat” approach to voter registration, aiming for maximum participation and impact.

The Power of Youth Demographics

The potential impact of this youth mobilization is significant, given Kenya’s demographics. Young people under the age of 35 make up a staggering 75% of the country’s population. However, a stark contrast exists in representation, with only 6% of elected officials being under 35. Nicocadi organizers aim to rectify this imbalance by registering up to 6 million new young voters. What began as a simple TikTok challenge has grown into a widespread, grassroots effort.

Crystal Aig, a nominated senator in Kenya’s Parliament, has joined the Nicocadi drive, highlighting the importance of inclusivity. She stressed that every demographic, including young people with disabilities and women, needs to participate to bring about the desired change. This voter bloc, when mobilized, represents a powerful force that can no longer be ignored by the political establishment.

Personal Motivation Drives Participation

For many young Kenyans like 25-year-old Peter Joffrey, the movement has sparked a newfound engagement with politics. Previously feeling disconnected, he now understands the importance of his single vote. “There are no jobs. I know there are million people like me jobless. I feel like if you register as a voter, we are going to make we are going to collect the numbers and change the game,” he stated. His motivation is personal, driven by a desire to see the right leaders chosen through the available democratic processes.

Expert Insights on Youth Mobilization

Anarima Wako, Executive Director of Sasa Place, a youth-focused organization in Nairobi, commented on the impressive mobilization. She confirmed that the Nicocadi initiative aligns with civic tech and advocacy efforts. While the electoral management body has a goal of registering 6.3 million voters, Wako believes this target will be surpassed due to the high interest. She noted that this voter registration drive, lasting one month, is likely to be followed by another before the election, given the momentum.

Wako explained that the current youth movement’s momentum stems from the aftermath of the 2024 protests. Despite initial promises of change, including cabinet reshuffles, many felt things returned to a status quo. The shift to voter registration represents a strategic move, responding to the narrative that protest is not the only way to be heard. “This is young people basically saying that, okay, you’ve said an election is coming up… We’re going to register and we’re going to use the processes that are available,” she said.

Emergence of New Leaders and Shifting Political Landscape

With the election about a year and a half away, the political landscape is already showing signs of change. Wako anticipates the emergence of fresh faces, including many young women who were at the forefront of recent protests. Politicians under 45 are beginning to launch campaigns, signaling a potential shift in leadership. The prospect of young voters turning out in large numbers is seen as a significant “swing vote,” especially for a political class accustomed to decades-old strategies.

This election will also mark a departure, as it will be the first without the influential presence of Raila Odinga, a key figure who shaped many political decisions. His party is now navigating its succession and vision for 2027, creating opportunities for new political dynamics to emerge amidst the ongoing energy of youth engagement.

Looking Ahead

The Nicocadi movement’s success in registering young voters could dramatically reshape Kenya’s political future. The focus now shifts to whether this enthusiasm translates into high voter turnout on election day and whether the newly registered youth can elect representatives who truly reflect their aspirations and concerns, potentially ushering in a new era of governance in Kenya.

Source: Kenya's Gen Z are back out on the streets to get young people registered to vote | DW News (YouTube)