Kakamega Gen-Z Urged to Pursue Dialogue Over Planned 'Occupy Kakamega' Protest

As Kenyan youth, popularly known as Gen-Z, continue their efforts for better leadership, leaders from Kakamega County have urged them to engage in dialogue rather than proceed with their planned protest named "Occupy Kakamega."
Following a meeting with Gen-Z youth, Gildon Shioso, the Butsotso South ward representative and chairman of the budget committee in the Kakamega parliament, appealed to the youth to reconsider their protest scheduled for Tuesday, aimed at pushing for reforms in Kakamega County.
"We cannot improve our county through demonstrations. I urge all of you, if the Occupy Kakamega County protest must proceed on Tuesday, to ensure it remains peaceful. However, demonstrations alone cannot solve our issues. Let us come together as young people to find constructive solutions for our county," he said.
Shioso acknowledged existing challenges within Kakamega County but emphasized the need for youth to engage with county leadership, cautioning that protests could lead to violence and property damage, exploited by opportunistic elements.
"While our commitment as youth to combating corruption and enhancing service delivery is crucial, we must do so through constructive and safe means. Fellow Gen-Zs, I understand the challenges within our county, but violence and hooliganism will not save us," he added.
Cynthia Auma, representing Gen-Zs in Kakamega County, vowed not to relent until their concerns are addressed. She highlighted issues such as rampant unemployment among youths and the poor state of healthcare facilities in the county.
"I am a trained teacher but have not found employment due to the lack of opportunities within the county. I appeal to Governor Fernandes Barasa to address youth unemployment and the dire state of our hospitals, where basic supplies like gloves are lacking," she expressed.
Auma also pointed out loopholes in the education sector, advocating for increased transparency in the disbursement of bursaries.
"The allocation of bursaries should benefit citizens directly, as it often ends up in the wrong hands. I urge the President to address issues related to HELB disbursements to ensure all students in higher institutions benefit," she urged.