MOMBASA, Kenya – The youth of coastal Kenya are stepping up to shape the future they envision. This was evident at the recent Ndoto Za Pwani Townhall in Mombasa, where discussions revolved around civic engagement, political participation, and economic empowerment.
Key Takeaways
Transformation in Coastal Kenya
- Coastal Kenya is undergoing change, with youth leading the movement.
- Townhall in Mombasa focused on civic engagement, political participation, and economic revitalization.
- Youth voiced concerns, challenged systemic barriers, and demanded accountability from leaders.
ID Vetting Process Concerns
- Youth questioned why vetting for national ID applications remains in coastal Kenya but was removed in Northern frontier counties.
- A Muslim cleric shared personal struggles in obtaining an ID due to bureaucratic hurdles.
- Bamburi Ward MCA, Patrick Mbelle, called for reforms to make ID access easier for all Kenyans.
- Clergy members stressed the importance of following the rule of law instead of relying on informal declarations.
- Participants referenced the Makonde community’s fight for citizenship, emphasizing the need to protect citizenship rights.
Civic Engagement & Youth in Leadership
- Youth criticized elected leaders for lacking integrity and failing to represent constituents.
- Jamila encouraged young people to challenge negative stereotypes and demand inclusion in governance.
- Hassan Masudi (Likoni Social Justice Center) rejected the “lazy youth” stereotype, highlighting systemic barriers to opportunities.
- Discussion on the arrest of 43 youth in Isiolo emphasized the need for stronger protections against arbitrary arrests.
- Consensus on the importance of holding leaders accountable to ensure youth representation in decision-making.
Economic Empowerment & Coastal Resources
- Salma Hemed analyzed Mombasa’s economy, urging residents to utilize the blue economy and local resources.
- She stressed the need for coastal communities to take ownership of their resources for sustainable livelihoods.
- Mathias Shipeta highlighted the region’s transformation into a cosmopolitan hub with growing economic opportunities.
- Call for youth to actively shape their social and economic future.
Call to Action
- Civic Voice Initiative Project Coordinator, Abdul Noormohamed, emphasized continued civic and political engagement.
- Urged youth to take charge and push for reforms.
- Townhall proved that coastal youth are proactive in leadership, challenging oppressive systems, and advocating for legislative change.
- Their fight for inclusion and empowerment is ongoing, and their voices will not be silenced.
