THE YOUTH CONGRESS
Real Youth Agent
The International Youth Day
THE INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY
Date: 12 August 2026
Venue: NGEC Main Boardroom
Theme: Different Contexts, Common Aspirations – Framing Youth Aspirations in Governance
The International Youth Day Commemoration 2026 was held on 12 August 2026 at the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) Main Boardroom. The event brought together young people, youth organizations, government representatives and development partners to discuss the role of youth in governance and ways of creating systems that respond to young people’s aspirations. The discussions emphasized that although young people come from different backgrounds and face different challenges, they share common aspirations for inclusion, meaningful participation, equal opportunities and responsive leadership.
Emerging Issues Affecting Youth
Several emerging issues affecting young people were highlighted during the sessions. One major issue was the difficult transition from education to employment, with unemployment and marginalization limiting opportunities for many young people. Other challenges included lack of opportunities, limited access to leaders and government administration, tokenism and inadequate inclusion of youth in decision-making processes. Young people also face victimization, lack of trust, individualism, resistance to youth participation and limited parental and community guidance.
The meeting further identified challenges such as in-fighting among youth groups, inadequate representation, and the tendency of institutions to involve young people without giving them meaningful decision-making power. There was also concern that young people may know their rights but lack sufficient knowledge of the Constitution and governance structures. These challenges can prevent youth from effectively influencing policies and decisions that affect their lives.
Proposed Ways of Addressing the Issues
Participants proposed active listening and meaningful engagement with young people as important solutions. Leaders and institutions should create safe spaces where youth can freely express their views and ensure that their contributions are considered during both policy formulation and implementation. Young people’s autonomy should also be respected, while youth representatives should be given meaningful positions rather than token roles.
There is also a need to strengthen youth political bargaining power, civic education and awareness of constitutional rights. Government institutions should implement policies that create employment and entrepreneurship opportunities and ensure equitable access to resources. Stronger partnerships between government, youth organizations and other stakeholders can also improve youth participation in governance. In addition, mentorship, parental and community support should be strengthened to help young people transition successfully from education into the workplace and leadership.
Organizations and Institutions Present
The organizations and institutions represented included the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), Hanns Seidel Foundation, National Youth Council, Kenya Young Parliamentary Association, Youth with Disability CBO, Youth Congress, and the State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy. The Kenyan Alliance was also represented, as reflected in the participants’ notes.
Conclusion
The commemoration demonstrated that young people are not merely future leaders but important participants in present-day governance. Addressing unemployment, marginalization, tokenism, limited representation and barriers to participation requires institutions to listen to youth, include them meaningfully and provide opportunities for leadership and decision-making. A collaborative approach between government, youth organizations and young people will therefore be essential in building a governance system that responds to the aspirations and needs of Kenya’s youth.
Philomena Njoroge
Girls empowerment and safety
The Youth Congress actively participated in the inter–sub-county public panel discussion held in Huruma to mark the 16 Days of Activism, organized by CFK. The forum focused on girls’ empowerment and safety, emphasizing the urgent need to address rising cases of teenage pregnancy and school-related gender-based violence. The Youth Congress also delivered a presentation about the organization and its work on GBV.”
Richard Omondi – Key Governance Components Highlighted
Richard Omondi represented TheYouthCongess (Youth League Kisumu County) at the #SikizanaHub in Kisumu — organized by Uraia Trust in partnership with TEAM and UNDP — where young people are boldly claiming their space in governance! 💪🏾🔥
🌍 Key Governance Components Highlighted:
✅ Active Participation
✅ Strategic Engagement
✅ Policy Influence
✅ Accountability & Transparency
✅ Collective Organization
✅ Leadership & Advocacy
We’re not staying silent anymore.
We’re intentionally stepping into decision-making spaces.
We’re organizing collectively.
We’re presenting real solutions to county leaders — not just airing grievances.
We’re actively influencing policies, not waiting for change to happen.
This is a shift:
From symbolic involvement ➡️ meaningful engagement.
From dissatisfaction ➡️ strategic advocacy.
From “youth should participate” ➡️ “we are the ones driving change.”
And most importantly — we’re documenting every promise made to ensure accountability and follow-through.
The era of passive participation is over. The youth are here — loud, organized, and unstoppable. 🚀
#YouthPowerInAction #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs #RisingKisumu #UraiaTrust #LeadingGenZ
@United Nations Development Programme – UNDP
@Uraia
@AU-EU Youth Voices Lab – Power of the Collective
@Kenya Youth Association – KYA
@Transform Initiative
@IREX
@European Union in Kenya
@EYES 4 SDGs Project
@North-South Centre of the Council of Europe
@Embassy of the Netherlands in Kenya
@County Government of Kisumu
@Lead Initiative Kenya
@Padare Endkulen
Richard Omondi represented TheYouthCongess (Youth League Kisumu County) where young people are boldly claiming their space in governance
Richard Omondi, The Youth Congress representative in Kisumu participated in a three-day stakeholders’ forum organized by URAIA Trust in Partnership with UNDP, which marked the official launch of the “KIJANA RISE Mentorship Programme” under the theme “Empowering the Next Generation of Changemakers.” The initiative targets youth groups across Kisumu County, focusing on Youth Leadership for Change and empowering young people to actively participate in governance and community transformation.
The training, held at Le Savanna Country Lounge Hotel, brought together 16 youth representatives from various organizations for intensive coaching on group leadership and sustainability. Over the three days, participants engaged in interactive sessions that provided practical models for effective group formation, strengthened their leadership and management skills, and deepened their understanding of youth rights, responsibilities, and group dynamics.
The forum also offered a vibrant space for experience sharing and peer learning, enabling participants to exchange ideas and best practices on youth leadership and community engagement. The Youth Congress shared insights on its ongoing advocacy for the formulation and implementation of a Kisumu County Youth Development Policy, an initiative that greatly impressed the facilitators and partners present. The URAIA Trust team expressed their appreciation for this proactive effort and encouraged the Youth Congress to invite them for future collaboration opportunities on youth policy advocacy and related programs.
Overall, the training marked a significant step forward in strengthening youth leadership capacity and reaffirming the commitment to nurturing responsible, visionary, and action-oriented young leaders. The knowledge and connections gained from this forum will go a long way in supporting continued efforts to empower youth to take initiative, assume responsibility, and drive positive change within their communities.
SUBMISSION OF A PETITION LETTER TO KISUMU COUNTY GOVERNMENT ON THE FORMULATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A YOUTH DEVELOPMENT POLICY
The Youth Congress, Kisumu County Youth League representative, Richard Omondi, presents a letter/petition calling for formulation and implementation of county youth development policy, to Ms. Beatrice Odongo, the CEC Member for Sports, Culture, Gender, and Youth in Kisumu County
On 24th/09/2025, the Youth Congress, in collaboration with its Youth League in Kisumu County, formally submitted a letter to the Kisumu County Government requesting the formulation and implementation of a County Youth Development Policy.
The letter highlighted the urgent need for Kisumu County to establish a policy framework that addresses youth development, empowerment, and participation, especially in light of the recently reviewed National Youth Policy. The appeal emphasized the importance of meaningful youth involvement, intergovernmental cooperation, and cross-sectoral approaches in shaping the policy.
The letter was received in good faith by the Office of the County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Sports, Culture, Arts, Gender, and Youth Affairs, Madam Beatrice A. Odongo, who expressed her appreciation for the initiative. Madam Odongo further committed to inviting the organization ICON to facilitate collaboration in the policy formulation process, noting her happiness at the willingness of the Youth Congress to be part of this achievement.
Similarly, the Office of the Governor, H.E. Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, through the Chief of Staff, acknowledged receipt of the letter and reassured that the County Government will do all it takes to ensure that Kisumu County develops and implements a Youth Development Policy.
This response reflects the County’s recognition of the importance of structured youth empowerment and its commitment to working with youth organizations and other stakeholders to deliver a comprehensive framework for youth development.
Register to Vote
Campaign rolled out to empower first time voters and mobilize youth vote in 2027
The Youth Congress, a premier youth-serving organization in Kenya has launched a countrywide initiative to mobilize and empower first-time voters.
All indications are that millions of young people will line up to vote in 2027 general election, making this a vital constituency that could decide the outcome of the race.
As Kenya’s General Elections approach, the focus on first-time voters is more crucial than ever. These young individuals will play a key role in shaping the future of Kenya’s democracy. It is essential that they understand their responsibility as voter and are encouraged to cast their votes with integrity.
That is why the Youth Congress countrywide initiative that has been rolled out to empower first time voters through voter education campaign is so important.
The Youth Voice: Activating First-Time Voters for Kenya’s 2027 General Elections implemented by The Youth Congress seeks to provide first-time voters with the knowledge and confidence they need to participate in the electoral process in a responsible way. The campaign includes education sessions conducted in learning institutions and communities where young voters learn about the importance of their vote, the electoral process and how to vote with integrity.
The IEBC is set to officially kick off a nationwide voter registration drive setting the stage for a high-stakes political battle to control nearly six million new voters-predominantly the youth, ahead of the 2027 general election.
The resumption of the Continuous Voter Registration followed by elaborate and tightly scheduled preparatory phase unveiled by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission recently.
Speaking at the launch, Raphael Obonyo, co-founder of The Youth Congress said; “Well-meaning young people with Kenya at heart must help mobilize unregistered youth to register in readiness for the 2027 poll.”
“Youth need the backing of all Kenyans, development partners and civil society. Anyone who believes in change that comes through the youth should provide the necessary support including financial or even supply of vote mobilization”
“A better way to achieve a huge registration of youth would be for young people to take over the process. By contrast, it is hard to imagine anything more destructive to Kenya’s democracy than large youth constituency that does not register to vote. That would be the victory some politicians most long for” added Obonyo.
The Youth Congress Presents Computers to Youth Organisations
The Youth Congress has presented computers to youth organisations as part of its commitment to promoting youth empowerment and development.
As a youth-driven organisation, our goal is to unlock opportunities and empower young people to reach their full potential. This initiative marks a significant milestone in our journey of impact. To date, we have supported over 50 youth entrepreneurship groups with essential equipment to strengthen their businesses—providing not just assistance, but the tools needed for growth and sustainability.
The Youth Congress remains dedicated to advancing youth livelihoods by creating opportunities for sustainable employment, enhancing skills development, nurturing leadership, and fostering positive social impact within communities.
Katiba Highlights 2025
Katiba 2025 Highlights
The Youth Congress
Celebrating champions of the Constitution
Katiba Roll of Honour-2025
The Youth Congress proudly recognizes six outstanding individuals for their dedication in championing the Constitution and insoiring societal change through Katiba Roll of Honour-The Youth Congress premier national award and recognition initiative.
Hosted annually by The Youth Congress, the prestigious event celebrates selected honorees for their remarkable efforts in pushing forward, showing what is possible and creating change using the Constitution.
This year, the six honorees 2025 Katiba Roll of Honour were celebrated at the Katiba Day event in Nairobi, Kenya.
The 2025 Katiba Roll of Honor.
- Pheroze Nowrojee (posthumous)
- John Khaminwa
- David Maraga
- Wanjira Wanjiru
- Shakira Wafula
- Shikoh Kihika
1. Pheroze Nowrojee (posthumous)
Pheroze Nowrojee who passed on in April this year, was widely regarded not only for his deep legal intellect but also for his quiet charisma, humility, and sharp analytical mind. He was often described as a lawyer’s lawyer, who pursued justice over grandstanding, and who believed in the sanctity of the Constitution, even in the most turbulent political climates. During Kenya’s darkest political moments, particularly under the one-party regime of the 1980s and 1990s, Pheroze Nowrojee stood firm in defense of human rights and constitutionalism. He represented numerous political detainees, activists, journalists, and opposition leaders who were victims of state oppression.
Nowrojee was the epitome of forthrightness and resilience for the struggle and agitation for human rights in Kenya. For as long as Kenyans have fought for their civil, political liberties and freedoms, Senior Counsel Pheroze Norojee was there, steadfast and unbowed as the People’s Attorney. His thoughts and footprints are in every milestone Kenya has attained, including the Constitution of 2010. And he didn’t stop there, he remained engaged in ensuring full and proper implementation of the 2010 constitution. (Here to receive the award on behalf of Pheroze, who we sadly lost in April this year, his wife Viloo Nowrojee)
2. John Khaminwa
John Khaminwa is Kenya’s oldest practicing Advocate having practiced law since 1973. He’s been battling for the Rule of Law. In addition to his legal practice, Khaminwa is recognized as a champion and defender of human rights. He is recognized by many for his unique demeanour, boldness, and speaking truth to power. Besides his legal background, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to human rights issues. The senior lawyer uses litigation and activism to challenge state power and authoritarianism.
As he says; “Lawyers must fight for democratic space, uphold the Constitution and the Rule of Law”
He spent nearly two years in detention following just because he represented pro-democracy figures like Raila Odinga, Kenneth Matiba and George Anyona during the single party rule of KANU. Dr. Khaminwa has continued to take on cases that subsequent establishments are not happy with including those trying to promote multi-party democracy and human rights. The insurmountable hurdles he overcame, and his continued effort to push for the full and proper implementation of the constitution, are among the reasons that John Mugalasinga is inducted to the prestigious Katiba Roll of Honour 2025.
John Khaminwa is Kenya’s oldest practicing Advocate having practiced law since 1973. He’s been battling for the Rule of Law. In addition to his legal practice, Khaminwa is recognized as a champion and defender of human rights. He is recognized by many for his unique demeanour, boldness, and speaking truth to power. Besides his legal background, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to human rights issues. The senior lawyer uses litigation and activism to challenge state power and authoritarianism.
As he says; “Lawyers must fight for democratic space, uphold the Constitution and the Rule of Law”
He spent nearly two years in detention following just because he represented pro-democracy figures like Raila Odinga, Kenneth Matiba and George Anyona during the single party rule of KANU. Dr. Khaminwa has continued to take on cases that subsequent establishments are not happy with including those trying to promote multi-party democracy and human rights. The insurmountable hurdles he overcame, and his continued effort to push for the full and proper implementation of the constitution, are among the reasons that John Mugalasinga is inducted to the prestigious Katiba Roll of Honour 2025.
3. David Maraga
David Maraga’s boldness and brave stand is nothing less than justice and strict adherence to the law. When the second CJ under the 2010 Constitution declared the re-election of Uhuru Kenyatta, during 2017 presidential election null and void, he stated: “The greatness of a nation lies in its fidelity to its constitution and strict adherence to the rule of law and above all the fear of God.”
Former chief justice David Maraga will be remembered for generations in Kenya and in the global community as one the “giants of the constitution”. In a historic judgment, and a first on the African continent, Kenya’s Supreme Court asserted the place of the constitution supremacy as decreed by the Article1 of Kenya 2010 constitution. The bench led by CJ Maraga as President of the SC delivered a stunning judgment overturning a presidential election of a sitting president.. In the Court’s majority ruling, the electoral commission had committed irregularities and failed to conduct the election in accordance with constitutional dictates and other relevant electoral laws. In 2010 as CJ, he advised the President to dissolve Parliament for failing to attain the constitutional provision that no more than two thirds of any elected or appointed body should be occupied by people of the same gender. Even after leaving office, he has continued to speak out against transgressions of the law and represented victims of state oppression. That is why the CJ Emeritus David Maraga is an obvious choice to be inducted into the Katiba Roll of Honor 2025
4. Wanjira Wanjiru
Our next honoree is a grassroots activist who co-founded the Mathare Social Justice Centre. She rose to prominence on Saba Saba day in 2020, pro-democracy demonstrations, when a video of her defying a police officer went viral. Kenyans were shocked to see a young woman looking at a police officer in in the eye and saying, “I’m protesting because you are killing us.” Her motto is, “When we lose our fear, they lose their power.”
Over the years, and together with other young people in various informal settlements, Wanjira Wanjiru has continued to amplify their struggle and demand for dignified lives, as laid out in Article 43 of the Constitution on economic and social rights.
Wanjira’s bravery and remarkable organization and mobilization for social justice, earns her a place in Katiba Roll of Honor, this year.
5. Shakira Wafula
Our next honoree, came to prominence during the June 2024 Gen Z protests. She was at the forefront of the nationwide movement against the Finance Bill 2024.
Her bold stance against police transgressions during the protests against the Finance Bill that was withdrawn after the national outrage earned her widespread praise. In videos circulated online, she could be heard telling police officers, “I’m here for Kenyans, I’m here for my people, I’m here for your rights. Nitoe!! Nitoe baba! Sitoki!” she told the frustrated officers.
Shakira Wafula has continued to fearlessly speak out for social justice, to organize and mobilize youth to exercise their agency.
Recently Team Shakira, mobilized Kenyans to raise more than 2.8 million to bail out young people detained following June 2025 protests. The initiative launched after the June 2025 and Saba Saba protests, gained momentum online rallying contributions from across the country.
Ladies & gentlemen, join me as we welcome Shakira Wafula into the Katiba Roll of Honor 2025
6. Shikoh Kihika
Our final honoree tonight is the founder of Tribeless Youth Movement in Kenya that seeks to end negative ethnicity that could lead to poll chaos.
The name Wanjiku Kihika is a household name in Nakuru. A name that is very well known in the activism space. Her passion for activism gave rise to Ubuntu Creative Space at Tribeless youth, a space that ropes in young people to discuss matters of governance and educate the community using art, dialogue and storytelling.
She’s been able to foster the pioneer creatives and activism digital media organization that focuses on nurturing and incubating the emergence of upcoming generations who are socially conscious artists, activists, content creators and marginalized group.
While the Constitution guarantees the right to protest, past demonstrations have not always been smooth. Many have ended in clashes, arrests, and, in some cases, victims of excessive force by the police. And Shikoh has been helping protesters to prepare for marches and to stay safe and march responsibly.
Katiba Roll of Honor 2025 welcomes Wanjiku Kihika (unfortunately she can’t be with us tonight, but here to receive the award on behalf of Shiko is her sister)
