Young Africans are redefining politics in urban centers, leveraging social media and unconventional approaches to mobilize against issues like tax increases and demand better living conditions. As the continent’s youth population continues to grow, their influence on Africa’s politics is likely to increase.
The Rise of Young Urbanites in Africa‘s Politics
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Africa is undergoing a significant transformation with the rapid growth of its cities and a youth boom. Over two-thirds of the continent’s population are under the age of 30, and by 2035, most of these young people will live in cities.
The Power of Gen Z Protests
Young adults from Generation Z (Gen Z), born between 1995 and 2010, have been at the forefront of protests against tax increases in Kenya. The demonstrations forced President William Ruto to withdraw the tax bill and reshuffle his cabinet. These protests were characterized by their unconventional approach, with no central organization or leading figure. Instead, they were motivated by a specific issue and mobilized through social media.
Demystifying Complex Issues
Titus Kaloki, coordinator for the Just Cities project at the Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES) in Kenya, notes that Gen Zers have been able to demystify complex issues like tax laws and legal documents. They make these issues readable, understandable, and translate them into different languages.
The Need for Inclusive Democracy
Lena Gutheil, a researcher at Megatrends Africa within the German Institute of Development and Sustainability, observes that young, urban Africans tend to avoid formal forms of democratic participation. Instead, they prefer to protest due to their frustration with the lack of economic opportunities and poor living conditions in informal settlements.
Addressing ‘Democracy on an Empty Stomach’
Kaloki emphasizes that democracy needs to deliver so that people are convinced that the system works. African governments have a duty to provide infrastructure and public goods, such as safe drinking water, sanitation, and transportation. Many poor neighborhoods lack these basic necessities, which can lead to disillusionment with democracy.
Strategic Funding Needed
Kaloki suggests that the European Union needs to rethink its approach to promoting democracy. Strategic funding for civic education, public goods, and services is necessary to create win-win situations. For example, a European company like Siemens could use EU funds to build fast public transportation in Nairobi, benefiting both the city’s residents and the economy.
Challenges Ahead
While there is hope for the future, Kaloki is also anxious about the authoritarianism taking hold in some regions, such as the Sahel. Democracy in Africa is under pressure due to rampant disinformation on- and offline. It will be crucial to pay attention to how Gen Z movements mobilize, communicate, and protect themselves from disinformation and echo chambers.
In conclusion, the rise of young urbanites in Africa’s politics holds great promise, but also presents significant challenges. Addressing these issues will require a concerted effort from governments, civil society, and international partners to create inclusive and effective democracy that delivers for all citizens.
