As political temperatures begin to rise ahead of Kenya’s 2027 general elections, a deepening youth unemployment crisis is triggering concern among policymakers, community leaders, and civil society groups. With millions of young Kenyans grappling with limited economic opportunities, stakeholders are now warning of the growing risk of political exploitation and social instability if urgent interventions are not implemented.
Across the country, the challenge is stark, a youthful population entering the labor market at a pace far outstripping job creation. Analysts caution that without deliberate investment in skills development and job creation, the country risks a repeat of past election cycles where disenfranchised youth were drawn into unrest and manipulation.
Yet, amid this uncertainty, a quiet transformation is taking root in Thika one that is offering a glimpse of hope
In Thika, a growing number of young people are turning away from the streets and toward digital content creation, thanks to an innovative, pro-bono film and technology training programme. The initiative is equipping participants with practical skills in videography, editing, and online media production tools that are increasingly in demand in today’s digital economy.
The programme is spearheaded by Joseph Giathi, popularly known as Mzalendo JT, the CEO of Pepe Media Company. Giathi has positioned the initiative as both an economic empowerment platform and a preventive measure against rising social risks.
“Idleness is a ticking time bomb, particularly as we enter this political cycle,” Giathi said during a recent training session. “When young people have no stake in the economy, they become vulnerable to crime, substance abuse, and political exploitation. We must act now.”
He emphasized that digital technology has become a powerful equalizer, enabling young people to bypass traditional employment barriers and tap into global markets through online content creation.
Kenya’s electoral history has repeatedly highlighted the vulnerability of unemployed youth during campaign periods. With politicians often seeking to mobilize large numbers for rallies and other activities, idle youth populations have frequently been drawn into divisive or even violent engagements.
Giathi warned against this trend, urging young people to resist being used as tools for political interests.
“The youth must refuse to be reduced to political fodder. The future lies in building sustainable careers not in temporary handouts that leave them worse off,” he said.
He pointed to the creative economy including film, social media, and digital marketing as a viable alternative capable of absorbing thousands of young people if properly supported.
The impact of the programme, operating under Sauti Pepe Media, is already evident among its beneficiaries.
Felix Kithinji, one of the participants, described the training as life-changing.
“This programme completely changed my trajectory. Without these skills, many of us would have ended up in crime or drug abuse. Now we are creating content, building brands, and earning an income,” he said.
Similarly, Jemimah Wanjiru highlighted the renewed sense of purpose among participants, noting that the training has instilled both confidence and independence.
However, despite these successes, trainees pointed to a persistent disconnect between government policy and grassroots realities. They expressed frustration that youth empowerment funds often fail to reach genuine community-based initiatives.
Participants and organizers are now calling for a coordinated approach to address youth unemployment, urging key stakeholders to step up their involvement.
They are appealing to religious institutions to expand their role beyond spiritual guidance by investing in vocational and technical training hubs.
Political leaders to prioritize meaningful investments in youth-focused sectors such as technology and the creative arts and private sector players to create more internship and apprenticeship opportunities within the digital economy.
Experts argue that such a collaborative approach could unlock the potential of Kenya’s youth while safeguarding national stability ahead of the 2027 elections.
As Kenya edges closer to a critical electoral period, the Thika initiative is emerging as a model for youth empowerment. By equipping young people with relevant, income-generating skills, it demonstrates a practical pathway toward reducing unemployment and mitigating social risks.
For many of the beneficiaries, the message is clear: empowerment not rhetoric holds the key to a stable and prosperous future.
