Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged Kenyans to bridge generational divides and embrace unity in shaping the country’s future.
Speaking during the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, Kindiki emphasized that no age group is superior to another in the journey toward national development.
“We all belong to this country—no generation is superior to the other,” said Kindiki. “The old have a role to play, the youth have a role to play, and even our unborn children will one day have a role to play.”
The Deputy President’s remarks come against the backdrop of increased national attention on Kenya’s youth, particularly Gen Z, whose activism was highlighted by last year’s widespread protests against the Finance Bill 2024.
Many young Kenyans have voiced frustrations over governance, unemployment, and exclusion from national decision-making.
Kindiki acknowledged these concerns, urging older generations and leaders to recognize the youth’s role in pushing for economic and governance reforms.
He likened their efforts to the independence struggle, noting that today’s fight is for “economic freedom.”
“This generation owes the generation that fought for political freedom the debt of fighting for the economic freedom of our country,” he said, affirming that Kenya is “on course” to honoring that legacy through bold reforms and economic revival.
Kindiki also praised President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga for promoting national dialogue and inclusive governance, calling their cooperation a strong foundation for unity beyond ethnic and religious lines.
“It is clear that between yourself and Raila you are speaking to the nation,” he told the President. “Let us build a more inclusive Kenya where one’s place of birth, religion, or ethnicity doesn’t define their opportunities.”
The 2025 Madaraka Day celebration, themed “Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs,” spotlighted the untapped potential of Kenya’s marine resources, a sector the government hopes will drive future development.
