We protested just once and believe we have been heard,” say Lamu’s Gen Z

Young people, particularly those from the Gen Z generation, in Lamu County went about their activities as usual on Tuesday, while protests took place in various parts of the country.

In the main towns of Lamu, including Lamu Old Town, Mokowe, Hindi, Mpeketoni, Kibaoni, Majembeni, Witu, Faza, Pate, Mkokoni, Kiwayu, and Kiunga on the Kenya-Somalia border, activities continued as normal as if nothing was happening in the country.

Unlike other parts of the country where business and transportation were disrupted, Lamu towns saw shops open and transportation continue without any issues.

Some youths interviewed said they had already participated in protests last week, demonstrating their dissatisfaction with President William Ruto’s government.

They stated that despite not participating in Tuesday’s protests this week, their stance remains the same as their peers across the country in demanding reforms.

Last week, Gen Z youth in Lamu protested to push for government reforms. Photo | Kalume Kazungu
The leader of the youth in Lamu, Mr. Mohamed Omar, said they support President Ruto’s resignation.

“Here in Lamu, we already protested for the first time last week. Even if we don’t repeatedly join these protests, we believe our cries were heard. We support the call for reforms in the country, including the resignation of Zakayo (President Ruto). We declared our stance last week when we participated in the protests. There’s no need to keep repeating,” said Mr. Omar.

Simon Mbuthia, a youth from Mpeketoni, said they did not join Tuesday’s protests as they plan to protest this Thursday (today).

“We have been given notice to hold protests this Thursday. So, we support our fellow youth across the country. President Ruto must step down,” said Mr. Mbuthia.

Ms. Brenda Mwangi urged the police not to use excessive force against protesters.