When Kenya embraced devolution through the 2010 Constitution, it was hailed as a game-changer. Power and resources would no longer be centralized in Nairobi but would be shared with counties, closer to the people. For the youth, it was a beacon of hope. It promised more jobs, increased participation in governance, and development that reflects local needs. But more than a decade later, many young Kenyans are left asking: Have we benefited, or have we been bypassed?
The Promise of Devolution
Devolution aimed to bridge inequality by:
- Promoting equitable resource distribution,
- Enhancing grassroots democracy and participation,
- Creating local opportunities through county governments,
- Encouraging youth inclusion in leadership and decision-making.
These were powerful promises for a country with a youthful population—nearly 75% under the age of 35.
The Reality on the Ground
Despite these intentions, the majority of Kenyan youth remain marginalized in the devolved system. Here’s why:
1. Unemployment Still Soars
Many counties have not significantly reduced youth unemployment. Opportunities in agriculture, small-scale manufacturing, ICT, and services remain underdeveloped or mismanaged. Often, job opportunities are awarded based on connections, not merit.
2. Tokenism in Youth Participation
Youth representation in county decision-making remains symbolic. While some young people are appointed to boards or youth committees, their voices are often drowned out or ignored. In many counties, public participation is a formality—not a genuine engagement.
3. Mismanagement and Corruption
Corruption has found a home at the county level. Funds meant for youth development—such as Youth Empowerment Funds, vocational training, or incubation hubs – are either misused or diverted. The youth are left disillusioned.
4. Delayed and Underfunded Programs
Projects meant to uplift youth – such as sports facilities, innovation centers, or talent development programs—are either stalled, poorly executed, or never take off. Budget allocations for youth are often minimal and rarely prioritized.
5. Barriers to Leadership
Though Article 55 of the Constitution calls for youth representation, electoral politics remains dominated by the older generation. High campaign costs, political gatekeeping, and patronage systems exclude many young aspirants.
Are There Success Stories? Yes.
There are counties like Makueni and Kisumu that have made strides in inclusive governance and youth programs. Some counties have successfully implemented talent incubation hubs, digital skilling programs, and youth-owned enterprises. But these are exceptions, not the norm.
What Needs to Change?
a) Reform Youth Policies at County Level
Counties need clear, practical youth development policies that are funded and monitored. Implementation must be results-oriented, not cosmetic.
b) Strengthen Accountability
Youth should demand transparency in how youth-targeted funds are spent. Technology and social media can be tools for civic engagement and whistle-blowing.
c) Promote Youth-led Enterprises
Counties should prioritize procurement from youth-owned businesses and offer incentives such as tax breaks, affordable credit, and market access.
d) Civic Education and Political Mobilization
Young people must understand their rights, roles, and power under devolution. Civic education is crucial to transforming passive youth into active citizens.
e) Embrace Innovation
Digital solutions can revolutionize service delivery and job creation. Counties should invest in youth innovation hubs and public-private partnerships to scale local ideas.
What we want: A System That Works for Us
Devolution is a tool – not a guarantee. For it to work for young people, we must organize, speak up, hold leaders accountable, and push for inclusive development. Kenya’s future rests not just on the strength of its institutions but also on the determination of its youth.
So the question is no longer, “Are we being bypassed?” – the real question is: “What are we doing to change that?”