The Commission—supported by the Hanns Seidel Foundation Kenya (HSF Kenya)— convened a one-day coordination meeting designed to strengthen youth participation in Kenya’s governance and development agenda. Against a backdrop of growing demand for accountability, civic engagement, and inclusive leadership, the gathering served as more than a meeting point; it became a space for mentorship, political awakening, and intergenerational exchange.
Sessions focused on leadership ethics, policy advocacy, constitutional rights, community organising, and the structures of county and national governance. Facilitators—drawn from civil society, governance experts, and seasoned leaders— guided participants through the real mechanics of leadership: navigating institutions, mobilising communities, and sustaining impact.
One of the most striking features of the meeting was its emphasis on intergenerational dialogue. Leaders shared their experiences navigating Kenya’s changing political environment, while young participants raised concerns about exclusion, tokenism, and structural barriers that hinder their participation.
The Commission underscored that genuine inclusion requires structured mentorship networks—linking youth to experienced practitioners who can guide them through political processes, ethical decisionmaking, and policy implementation.
