Charlene Ruto, the daughter of President William Ruto has urged Kenyan youths to rise above division and destruction and instead channel their energy towards meaningful nation-building.

In a statement on her X account on July 1, 2025, Charlene emphasized the importance of unity, and connection in addressing the concerns of young people.

“The way I see it, the conversation is no longer about having a seat at the table, but a place in each other’s hearts.” Charlene stated.

Having spent the past three years actively engaging and investing in the youth across the country, Charlene shared key insights into what truly drives Kenya’s young generation, adding that they yearn for connection even amid controversy.

“Young people are actually looking for connection, not conflict; they are looking for a platform, not destruction; they are looking for mentorship, not violence; and they definitely want to be part of the solution, not the problem!” Charlene reiterated.

Her words come at a time when the country is grappling with youth unrest, growing frustration, and a surge in protests.

However, Charlene cautions against misguided forms of expression and challenges the youth to rethink their approach to change-making , which she says will lead the country to the right direction.

“There is no nation that will ever benefit from encouraging division, be it generational, tribal, or even racial,” she wrote, adding that “peer pressure, mob mentality, hate raids (‘Kusalimia watu’), and riots do not qualify as unity.”

Her message is both a reality check and a motivational charge as she poses a bold and necessary question that many leaders and citizens alike must grapple with.

“How do we convert our passion to policy, our ideas to tangible plans, our energy for riots to reform-based engagements, from shouting to constructive dialogue, and intense emotions into partriotism!” she posted.

Charlene’s message reflects the voice of someone who has immersed herself in the struggles and aspirations of Kenya’s youth, as she gives hope, and pleads with the young people to transform their frustrations into fuel for progress.

Her sentiments echo a broader need in society; the urgency to create spaces for meaningful dialogue, the importance of intergenerational mentorship, and the power of patriotic engagement, which she says will give a prolific and peaceful country.