Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina has sounded the alarm on the urgent need to create meaningful job opportunities for young Kenyans, warning that failure to address youth unemployment could lead to deeper political and social unrest. His remarks come just a day after the June 25 nationwide protests, largely driven by Gen Z activists demanding transparency, accountability, and economic inclusion.
Speaking via his official X platform on June 26, 2025, Ole Kina highlighted the protests as a warning sign of the frustration building among Kenya’s youth. “We need to create job opportunities for our youth to promote effective governance in this country,” he said.
The Gen Z-led demonstrations began as opposition to the controversial Finance Bill 2024 but quickly evolved into a broader outcry against systemic corruption, poor leadership, and lack of economic opportunities. Organised largely through social media, the protests captured the country’s attention and have redefined youth activism in Kenya.
Ole Kina proposed a dual strategy to tackle the issue: reforming the National Youth Service (NYS) to absorb high school graduates and supporting college graduates to innovate within their fields. “High school graduates who cannot pursue further education should be directed to the NYS across all 47 counties, with each county employing them to implement their budgets,” he suggested.
He added that university and college graduates must be given the space and resources to lead innovation in sectors like health, agriculture, and infrastructure. “It’s crucial that all our roads, hospitals, schools, agricultural sectors, and industries are developed by young people.”
The senator’s statement reflects growing concern within the political class over the sustainability of Kenya’s youth-driven political awakening. The Gen Z protests, largely leaderless and decentralised, have gained international attention for their fearless approach and effective use of digital tools.
“Young people must not be left on the sidelines of national development,” Ole Kina warned. “If we do not act now, the frustration will only grow.”
His call adds to a growing consensus that Kenya must enact youth-centred structural reforms to avoid further unrest and build a more inclusive, stable society.
