When a politician dismissed Gen Z protesters as KFC-eating, Uber-riding city dwellers, his remarks were met with widespread condemnation and outrage.
“Wale wengi umeona wakiandamana Nairobi wameshika iPhone, wanajiita Gen Z. Wanafika kwa maandamano na Uber. Wanatoka maandamano wanaingia KFC kula kuku na minofu, maji ni ile ya chupa. Hao, hawajui kukosa stima ni kitu gani…” said National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah days after the June 25 protest last year.
His comments painted Gen Z protesters as an irresponsible, urban, cool, and carefree generation—one out of touch with the harsh realities around them. Yet, ironically, these very Gen Z protesters had taken to the streets to demand change.
Kenya’s Gen Z is coming of age in a world full of contradictions—where self-expression meets systemic frustration, and ambition is shaped by the realities of governance, the economy, and cultural expectations.
Young voices from universities across the country are speaking their truths, laying bare what they value, what they reject, and the future they hope to build. What emerges is a portrait of a generation rooted in authenticity, emotional depth, and a determination to create something better—not just for themselves but for their communities.
Ask any Kenyan Gen Z what they value most, and their answers echo a quiet kind of wisdom: peace of mind, trust, family, and growth.
“Life sometimes isn’t a straight line,” one student reflects. “So having inner peace and a support system really helps me move forward.”
For others, it’s about the bonds they nurture.
“Genuine relationships—both personal and professional—are the backbone of how we survive,” says Grace, 22, from Zetech University.
Kate Marthason Okudo, also 22 and from Zetech University, values peace of mind, genuine relationships, and personal and professional growth. These values, she believes, help her navigate life’s bumps. It’s a sentiment echoed in different ways. These are young people who want not just to succeed but to feel whole while doing it.
Their top priorities reflect this blend of ambition and emotional intelligence. Mental health tops the list — no surprise for a generation raised at a time when speaking about anxiety, therapy, or burnout isn’t taboo but necessary. Right behind it are building a stable future and cultivating real relationships.
“I treasure financial stability, family, and peace of mind. That’s what I’m focused on,” says Candy Tumbo, 23, a student at Tangaza University.
Eugene Marangu, 22, from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa, values money, success, and growth.
Gen Zare deeply self-aware and critically aware of the world around them. Their feelings about Kenya are layered with both pride and pain. They love the culture, native languages, food, and the resilience of Kenyans.
“There’s a strong spirit of persistence and creativity here,” Kate says. “It helps us shine even during tough times.”
They find beauty in diversity, especially the ethnic richness that defines Kenya.
“We are so many tribes, and I think that’s one of the most beautiful things about us,” says Adhiambo, 22, from the University of Nairobi. “It’s sad, though, that our tribes are often used as a tool for division instead of unity.”
Political disillusionment weighs heavily on their shoulders. Corruption, gender-based violence, and lack of accountability are repeatedly mentioned.
“I hate the state of governance and how those in power openly disregard the rule of law,” says Adhiambo. “It’s heartbreaking and exhausting to see so much injustice become normalized.”
Grace highlights economic hardship and a perceived lack of progress as persistent challenges. Candy voices similar concerns: “Corruption is what I hate most about the country.” There is clear, shared frustration that despite Kenya’s richness in culture and community, governance and social justice continue to fail its youth.
Along with this disillusionment comes a recurring feeling—being misunderstood.
“Yes, sometimes I feel misunderstood,” says Candy.
For Adhiambo, it’s more specific: “As a woman and a young person, I often feel misunderstood. There are so many stereotypes about how women should behave, and even more assumptions about Gen Z. A lot of it comes from outdated thinking.”
Her frustration is not unique. Many feel their generation is mislabeled as lazy or entitled when, in reality, they’re simply navigating an unpredictable world with tools older generations never had. They are acutely aware of how media and public perception often distort their identity.
Yet, they haven’t lost their sense of joy or play. Fun, for them, isn’t about escape—it’s about expression. Hanging out with friends, vibing to music, having deep conversations, creating TikToks, or exploring new places—these are the spaces where Gen Z feels most alive.
“Fun is experiencing something new,” Candy says simply.
Eugene agrees: “It’s about making memories with your circle, discovering new places.” Kate finds fun in music, movies, and unplanned adventures. “Fun is feeling free and being in the moment,” she says. Grace defines fun more abstractly, calling it “a subjective experience characterized by enjoyment, amusement, and a sense of lightheartedness.”
Their fun is deeply tied to presence, creativity, and relationships.
Their free time is an extension of their values. Self-improvement and creativity rule the day. Many spend their downtime learning new skills, watching films, or diving into hobbies that support their identity.
“In my free time, I love being in creative spaces. I design outfits and incorporate fiber art like crochet and knitting. But I also enjoy being alone, just listening to my favorite music,” says Adhiambo.
Eugene loves discovering new sounds and filming TikToks. Grace focuses on personal development. Candy is always looking for something to learn. Kate echoes the sentiment. She finds joy in series, music, and spontaneous moments with friends. Hobbies aren’t distractions for this generation—they’re reflections of their inner world.
When asked to define their generation, their answers are bold and hopeful.
“We are the chosen generation,” says Eugene. “Period.” Another adds, “We are confident, creative, and not afraid to speak up. We prioritize mental health, and we stand for what we believe in.”
It’s clear that Gen Z doesn’t see itself as perfect—but as powerful. They embrace both vulnerability and transformation, unafraid to question the systems they live in.
They are digital natives but deeply human. Emotionally expressive yet resilient. Globally connected but rooted in community. Aware of injustice—and unafraid to name it. Most importantly, they are willing to imagine a different world and work toward it—even if quietly, even if slowly.
“My generation is actually about being open, diverse, and digitally native. We are not afraid to speak up about issues that matter—like social justice—and when we speak, we demand to be heard. Most older people see us as too loud or too sensitive, but we’re just fighting for what we believe in. We want to be heard and understood,” says Violah Odhiambo, a 22-year-old student from JKUAT.
As much as she spends her free time listening to music, working out, reading, cooking, or trying out new hobbies like photography and video editing, she also enjoys spending time with family and friends.
Asked what she loves about her country, Violah singles out cultural heritage and Kenya’s stunning landscapes.
Alvince Okoth, 23, describes Gen Z as authentic, genuine, and honest.
“Gen Z is all about being digitally native, socially conscious, and unapologetically ourselves. I love our diversity, connectedness, creativity, and willingness to challenge the status quo. Kenya is the best place to be. Its beauty—from its stunning landscapes to its vibrant culture—is something I adore. However, corruption and inequality are major issues that frustrate us. These problems hinder progress and affect many Kenyans’ quality of life,” he says.
Alvince describes fun as being in the moment, letting loose, and enjoying good company.
“For me, it’s hanging out with friends, trying new experiences, or following my favorite stories. Lately, I’ve found graphic designing interesting, and I’m spending much of my free time learning more. I also love to listen to music, read, or explore new places. It’s all about relaxation and recharging,” he says.
At 26, Shaph Neil already aspires to join active politics. Having grown up in a generation facing corruption and inequality from the ruling class — a reality that holds back the youth’s potential — Shaph says it is frustrating to see hardworking citizens struggle while systems meant to serve them are misused.
“Many youths feel misunderstood. They’re often labeled as ‘too sensitive’ or ‘entitled,’ but in reality, they’re deeply aware, emotionally intelligent, and passionate about social justice, mental health, and authenticity. They just communicate and express values differently, and that can clash with older generations’ expectations,” he says.
His sentiments are echoed by Mirriam Akinyi, a student at the University of Kabianga. The 20-year-old says the younger generation often feels misunderstood by older ones who assume they are lazy or lost.
Although many are educated, Mirriam says the government has failed to create job opportunities for the youth. She cites corruption and poor leadership as the biggest ills pushing the country backwards.
“We are all working towards good mental health, financial independence, and meaningful connections. Most of us want balance—not just survival. Kenya is a beautiful country. I love our culture, the food, the humor, and the resilience of the people. Despite everything we are going through, we still find joy,” says Mirriam, who listens to music, watches series, reads, and journals during her free time.
“My generation is bold and fearless, and I love that we are go-getters. We value our education, our families, and friends. Our country is experiencing bad governance, and those in power seem not to understand our needs for proper governance and job opportunities,” says Maryon Akinyi, a 21-year-old from JKUAT.