Let’s get one thing straight—this isn’t about President William Ruto stepping down from power (though some Kenyans might secretly wish for it). Instead, this is a plea for him to step down from his comfortable bed of promises and meet the harsh realities of the youth he vowed to uplift.
Ruto’s leadership has left many young Kenyans disillusioned. Promises of a “bottom-up” economy raised hopes for better opportunities, but instead, we’ve seen rising unemployment, a tough business environment, and an increasing cost of living. It’s time to unpack the impact of his leadership on the youth and offer practical solutions that Kenyans can adopt to weather the storm.
The Negative Impact on the Youth
1. Unfulfilled Job Creation Promises
Ruto promised to create jobs for millions of unemployed youth through initiatives like the Hustler Fund. Yet, the reality paints a different picture. The Hustler Fund has been criticized as inadequate, offering small loans that barely help struggling entrepreneurs. Meanwhile, unemployment remains staggeringly high, with graduates still roaming the streets, CVs in hand, and hope fading by the day.
2. High Cost of Living
Under Ruto’s government, the cost of basic commodities has skyrocketed. Food, fuel, and rent have become luxuries for many young people. How can they dream of starting businesses or families when they can barely afford three meals a day?
3. Stifled Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Youth entrepreneurs have faced challenges accessing capital, with limited government support for innovative projects. Coupled with harsh taxation policies, even the most promising startups are being crushed under financial pressure.
4. Rising Mental Health Issues
With limited opportunities and a growing sense of despair, mental health issues among the youth have escalated. Depression, anxiety, and substance abuse have become silent epidemics, fueled by a lack of jobs, hope, and a supportive environment.
Reasonable and Actionable Solutions
While it’s easy to point fingers, real change requires action. Here are steps Kenyans, especially the youth, can take to navigate these challenges and hold leaders accountable:
1. Advocate for Policy Change
Youth-led movements can push for policy reforms that prioritize job creation, lower taxes for startups, and increase funding for innovation hubs. Hold leaders accountable by using social media, petitions, and peaceful protests to voice concerns.
2. Build Grassroots Networks
Instead of waiting for government intervention, young people can form savings and investment groups to pool resources for small-scale businesses. Communities can work together to establish cooperative societies that foster self-reliance.
3. Leverage Digital Opportunities
The internet offers countless avenues for earning a living. From freelancing platforms to e-commerce and content creation, the youth can explore opportunities that require minimal startup capital but promise significant returns.
4. Embrace Agriculture as a Business
With Kenya’s agricultural potential, young people can tap into modern farming techniques, value addition, and agribusiness. Forming partnerships and seeking mentorship from successful agripreneurs can turn farming into a profitable venture.
5. Push for Mental Health Support
Advocating for better mental health services and creating peer-support groups can help young Kenyans cope with challenges. Additionally, accessing free or affordable online resources can provide the needed psychological support.
6. Participate in Local Governance
Youth must engage in local governance to influence decisions affecting their communities. Attend barazas, run for office, and participate in civic education to understand how policies impact daily life.
Final Thoughts: The Real Call for Leadership
President Ruto stepping down from his “bed of promises” means taking decisive action to fulfill his commitments. However, until that happens, the youth cannot afford to sit idle, blaming the government for their woes. It’s time to rise, innovate, and push for the changes they want to see.
As the saying goes, “If the mountain won’t come to Mohammed, Mohammed must go to the mountain.” Similarly, if the government won’t deliver, the youth must step up and chart their own path. After all, true leadership begins with individual initiative.
Do you agree? What other solutions can the youth adopt? Share your thoughts in the comments below!