Kenya’s Generation Z faces an uncertain and tense future, with fears extending beyond peaceful protests to the grim possibility of loss of life.
In a striking display of resilience and defiance, many young Kenyans are turning to social media to express their fears and hopes through unexpected means.
Across platforms like TikTok, X, and Facebook, a wave of haunting yet poignant content has surfaced—self-made funeral posters, heartfelt tributes, and simulated eulogies.
These digital messages feature somber black-and-white portraits, messages to loved ones, and reflections on mortality, serving as both a form of protest and a way to process their emotions.
In a time of rising tension and uncertainty, this unconventional expression highlights the deep fears and hopes of Kenya’s youth as they brace for what may come.
Many include chilling lines like “In case they shoot me tomorrow, read this to my mum.”
It’s not satire. It’s not a prank. It’s a collective scream — raw, poetic, and devastatingly bold.
Upcoming DJ Eduhmaks, real name Edwin, sparked the trend by posting his own eulogy on X. “Born in Kisii, raised with humility and hope… he refused to be silenced in the face of corruption, tyranny, and hopelessness,” his tribute read.
The post has since gone viral, being shared across platforms like wildfire.
David Wachira, better known as @JNationist on TikTok, took it a step further — recording a behind-the-scenes video of his funeral photo shoot. The caption? “In Loving Memory of David Wachira. Born April 17, 2000 – Rested June 25, 2025.” His post has racked up over 26,000 likes.
Mortician and TikTok influencer Ann Mwangangi revealed she’s been flooded with calls — and even received M-Pesa payments from Gen Z followers booking space in advance at the morgue.
“Someone sent me Ksh. 1,000 as a ‘deposit’. I thought it was for facial products. They said, ‘No. I’m paying for preservation just in case.’”
In other videos shared by other users, one posts a video saying she has had enough and maybe their parents will benefit more from funeral donations than they will ever benefit from their lives.
Perhaps videos were dark. But Dj Edumax took it a notch darker with a chilling eulogy on X.
“In case they shoot me tomorrow, read this loud to my mom and dad and tell them I did my best. Born in Kisii, raised with humility and hope, Edwin carried the dreams of many. He was not just a mechanical engineer by training, a DJ by passion, or a skilled creative. He was a fighter for justice, equity, and dignity. He refused to be silenced in the face of corruption, tyranny, and hopelessness.”
“But Edwin is not gone. He lives in every chant on the streets, every mixtape still spinning, every young person now wide awake. He died standing for something, for change. We will carry his torch. We will echo his cry. We will take back the country he loved so much.”
It’s dark. It’s macabre. But for many, it’s also a mirror of just how far Kenya’s youth feel pushed.
The June 25 protests, now the climax of year-long frustrations over the 2024 Finance Bill, have evolved into a generational reckoning.
The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a strong reassurance to Kenyans of their safety and security ahead of Tuesday’s planned demonstrations marking the anniversary of the June 25, 2024, protests.
While acknowledging past incidents of misconduct, the IG reiterated that the Service operates under a robust framework of oversight and accountability involving bodies such as the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), Parliament, and the Internal Affairs Unit.
Mr Kanja stressed that police will continue to act firmly and lawfully against any breach of peace, warning against unlawful or riotous assemblies. He urged protest organisers to cooperate with the authorities, citing the provisions of the Public Order Act.
“Any contrary conduct constitutes an unlawful, riotous assembly, and shall be handled as provided for by the law,” the statement warned.
The IG also issued a caution against accessing protected areas and engaging in provocative acts directed at officers on duty.
