From Protest to Reform: The Impact of Kenya’s 2024 Uprising

In June 2024, Kenya experienced a pivotal moment of civic unrest, as widespread protests erupted in response to the proposed Finance Bill that sought to introduce significant tax increases on essential commodities such as bread, fuel, and mobile money services. The movement, largely driven by Generation Z activists, mobilized rapidly through social media platforms, culminating in mass demonstrations across Nairobi and other major cities. On June 25, tensions reached a climax when protesters breached Parliament following the bill’s controversial passage. Security forces responded with force, deploying tear gas and live ammunition, resulting in the deaths of dozens and injuring many more. In the wake of national and international outcry, President William Ruto conceded to public pressure, withdrawing the Finance Bill and initiating dialogue with the youth to address their broader grievances regarding governance and economic inequality.

However, the withdrawal of the bill did not quell the unrest. Instead, the protests evolved into a wider social movement targeting systemic corruption, police brutality, and long-standing governance failures. Public demands for accountability led to significant political consequences, including the dismissal of a majority of the President’s cabinet in an attempt to rebuild public trust. Nevertheless, skepticism among the populace remained high, with many perceiving government actions as superficial. The events of 2024 marked a generational shift in Kenya’s political landscape, where young people, through both digital activism and physical mobilization, demonstrated an unprecedented capacity to influence national discourse. This moment signaled not just a protest against a single piece of legislation but a broader call for structural reform, setting a new precedent for civic engagement in Kenya and across the region.

Written By: Omotade Kehinde