In Kenya, Kenyan youth called Generation Z take to the streets to massively protest against President William Ruto’s 2024 finance bill
In Haiti, Prime Minister Conille, most likely, is already preparing his 2024/2025 budget, commonly called “Finance Law” in Haiti.
The irony is that it is President William Ruto’s men who will come to Haiti – if necessary – to help Conille soon achieve what Ruto could not do at home: impose high taxes on the majority of the population to please the institutions of Breton Woods (World Bank and International Monetary Fund)
In Kenya protests against the 2024 Finance Bill are currently underway in various parts of the country, as there is a generation of young people whose activism, whether on the streets of Nairobi or through global campaigns on social networks, strongly reminds us that young people are a force to be reckoned with. They not only participate in the political process, but shape the future of their country.
Their influence extends beyond protests and penetrates the very fabric of society, driving change in business practices, government policies and cultural norms.
What will happen in Haiti?
Media Capital CM presents this Kenyan youth, a force that can no longer be ignored.
By Bernard You know
In recent weeks, Kenya has witnessed a remarkable uprising led by its youngest population, Generation Z, who took to the streets in massive protest against the 2024 Finance Bill. These protests proved to be more than just fleeting moments of dissent; they send a clear message to the government that the voices of young people cannot be ignored. While some leaders initially underestimated their influence, President William Ruto recognized their importance and committed to engaging with them. This change is not simply a reaction to the protests but recognition of a broader societal transformation.
Generation Z, now entering the workforce in significant numbers, is driving change not only in the political arena but also in the corporate world. Their so-called “unreasonable” demands are met not out of obligation but out of necessity. The corporate world, aware that it cannot afford to alienate an entire generation, is adapting quickly. Consulting firms like Edelman act as “Gen Z whisperers,” helping companies align with the values and expectations of younger employees and customers. This shift speaks to the power and influence of Generation Z.
Businesses today are under pressure on several fronts: youth activists within their ranks, investors’ demands for ethical practices, and customers’ expectations for corporate social responsibility. The market has shown that companies that take a stand on social issues often do better. For example, companies that quickly withdrew from Russia after the invasion of Ukraine had better market performance than those that hesitated. This trend highlights a significant shift in corporate reporting that reflects broader societal changes.
In Kenya, the youth-led protests against the finance bill are a microcosm of this global phenomenon. Young Kenyans are using social media platforms like TikTok to amplify their message, transforming what started as online dissent into powerful street protests. This generation’s skillful use of digital tools has made their activism more visible and impactful, demonstrating their ability to mobilize and influence public opinion.
President Ruto’s response to these protests is indicative of a government that is beginning to understand the importance of engaging with its youth. His promise to address their concerns and include them in discussions about the nation’s future is a step in the right direction. The protests against the finance bill highlight that young people are not only demanding change, but also offering to be part of the solution.
This movement is not isolated to Kenya. Across the world, Generation Z is advocating for social justice, environmental sustainability and corporate responsibility. Their activism is reshaping how businesses and governments operate. The Financial Times recently reported on the rise of advisors who help companies adapt to the values of younger employees and customers. This adaptation is not only about meeting demands, but also about aligning with significant cultural change.
Critics of “woke capitalism” argue on both sides of the spectrum. Some activists dismiss corporate social responsibility as just lip service, while others say it hurts business profitability. However, these criticisms overlook the problem as a whole. The evolution of the business world towards more socially liberal practices reflects the evolution of societal values. Companies that align with these values are more likely to attract both talent and customers.
In a broader context, societal attitudes have changed dramatically in recent decades. Issues once considered controversial, such as homosexuality, casual sex, and gender roles, have become normalized. This change is particularly evident among younger generations who are leading the battle for a more inclusive and just society.
Gen Z activism, whether on the streets of Nairobi or through global social media campaigns, is a powerful reminder that young people are a force to be reckoned with. They not only participate in the political process, but shape the future of their country. Their influence extends beyond protests and penetrates the very fabric of society, driving change in business practices, government policies and cultural norms.
As Kenya faces the challenges and opportunities of the future, it is clear that Generation Z will play a crucial role. Their voices, demanding justice, equality and accountability cannot be ignored. They not only represent the future; they are the present and their impact is already being felt in all sectors of society.
Read the original article at Capital FM.
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