Youth leaders from across all 47 counties converged in Homa Bay to present 10-point recommendations dubbed ‘The Youth Agenda: Youth Voices for Kenya’s Future to governors, national policymakers, and development partners during International Youth Day (IYD) 2025’.
The policy document, a result of two years of engagement with over 1.5 million young people through Community Forums, Mtaani Tours, and the Ugatuzi Youth Voices Wall, outlines bold steps to harness the untapped potential of Kenya’s youth.
“As part of our pre-conference events, we had a very strong and candid baraza with our youth that were supported by SHOFCO from across the country. They have generated points of a memorandum and communique that will be handed over to leaders,” Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga said before President William Ruto during the opening of the 2025 Devolution Conference.
SHOFCO Founder and CEO Dr. Kennedy Odede said the youth agenda presents real solutions to youth problems and challenges.
“Let’s stop asking if youth are ready. We are ready. The real question is: are you ready to listen? Our vision is simple: A Kenya where young people are not only consulted, but also trusted. Where youth programs reflect our real lives.“Where every county sees us as partners in development, not a problem to be solved, but a power to be unleashed,” Dr. Odede said.
The agenda covers three pillars: Harnessing Talent, Supporting Youth Entrepreneurship, and Leaving No One Behind.From calls for better digital infrastructure in rural areas to simplifying regulations for youth-led MSMEs and making mental health care accessible, the agenda reflects the realities and aspirations of a youthful nation.
“We validated this agenda in Homa Bay during Devolution Conference because we want leaders to see it, touch it, and most importantly, act on it.
“We are proud to be handing this directly to decision-makers today,” John Odero, SHOFCO Program Director, said.
The ceremony, graced by over 2000 young people, was the culmination of a 2-year nationwide youth-led process, resulting in the symbolic unveiling, validation, and adoption of the agenda on the shores of Lake Victoria.
The youth call on President William Ruto, the Council of Governors, and county leaders to take immediate steps toward implementing the outlined recommendations.
The agenda stresses the need to institutionalize youth councils, guarantee access to national IDs, and transform youth mental health into a fundamental right.
“Let’s stop asking if youth are ready. We are ready. The real question is: are you ready to listen? Our vision is simple: A Kenya where young people are not only consulted, but also trusted. Where youth programs reflect our real lives.
“Where every county sees us as partners in development, not a problem to be solved, but a power to be unleashed,” the youth said in the agenda.
According to 2023 KNBS report, Kenya stands at a critical demographic juncture, with 75% of its population aged under 35. This burgeoning youth population represents an immense opportunity for growth, innovation, and national transformation.
From Jua Kali artisans to climate activists, to refugee youth in Dadaab to graduates in Nairobi, Kenyan youth are ready to drive progress, but government action is essential to remove barriers.
The full agenda can be accessed on https://shorturl.at/8qtc9 for free.
