As July 6th progresses, the eve of Saba Saba brings a profound sense of anticipation, and for many, deep reflection, across Kenya.
Just over a week ago, on June 25th, we witnessed the culmination of brewing frustrations, a moment that once again echoed the Swahili saying, “Hayawi, hayawi, huwa.” (What seems impossible or takes a long time, eventually happens).
My previous reflection, A Nation’s Call And Need For Healing, Hope, And Restoration, spoke to the poignant reality of that day and the immense human cost.
Today, as we stand on the brink of another historically significant date, that call for healing and hope feels more urgent than ever, especially as we consider the generational shifts shaping our nation’s destiny.
Saba Saba: A Legacy, A Cry for Evolution, and a Progressive Promise
Saba Saba, July 7th, is etched into Kenya’s history as a day of powerful citizen voice. It commemorates the pro-democracy movements of 1990 when Kenyans bravely took to the streets to demand multiparty democracy against an autocratic regime.
Over the decades, it has evolved into a symbol of civic engagement, a reminder that the people’s aspirations for accountability, justice, and good governance are enduring.
Indeed, from the spirit of these early rallies, Kenya eventually forged its 2010 Constitution, widely regarded as one of the most progressive in the world.
This landmark document, with its comprehensive Bill of Rights, devolution of power, and strong independent institutions, stands as a testament to what collective will can achieve.
However, the path of protest in Kenya has, at times, been fraught with immense pain. Many Saba Saba rallies and subsequent demonstrations have tragically been marked by destruction, loss of life, injuries, and widespread suffering.
A Painful Echo
The recent events of June 25th 2025, with their own profound human cost, sadly echoed this painful history, bringing the spirit of protest to the forefront once more.
And now, barely two weeks later, we face an “encore” on Saba Saba itself. This recurring pattern challenges us to reflect deeply on how we, as a nation, navigate dissent and pursue change.
This year, the spirit of Saba Saba is reignited with renewed intensity. Recent national conversations, driven largely by our vibrant Gen Z, have articulated a visceral sense of urgency for their future, fueled by pressing issues of the economy, governance, and opportunities for all.
Their call for change is not confined to the political arena. It cuts across all sectors of society, demanding a fundamental re-evaluation of how our nation operates, evolves, and progresses.
The Uncomfortable Mirror: Older Generations and the “Watoto” Mindset
As Millennials and Gen Z rise, poised to become the dominant leaders across politics, civil society, and corporate sectors within the next decade, we, the older generations (Boomers and Gen Xs), must hold up an uncomfortable mirror.
We sometimes dismissively label them “watoto” (children), yet many of us, at their age, were already working. Some of us were also raising families, and navigating adult responsibilities.
Now that we are older, are we truly giving the younger generations the space, time, and genuine mentorship they need to step into their full potential?
Or are we, consciously or unconsciously, hindering their progress, perhaps due to our own comfort with established ways or a reluctance to fully embrace new perspectives?
The way we interact with these younger generations today directly shapes the future we are building together. If we continue to overlook their voices and impede their development, what kind of leaders will they become when the mantle inevitably passes to them?
The Inevitable Shift: Questions for Tomorrow’s Leaders
The transition of leadership is not a distant possibility; it is an imminent reality. In the next 10 years, Millennials and Gen Z will be at the helm across the board.
This raises critical questions for all of us, particularly for those of us in positions of influence today:
- Will they listen to us when it’s their turn to lead?
- Will they be kind to us, the older generations, when they wield power and authority?
- Or will the challenges they are experiencing today as they fight for recognition become the leading factors for how they treat or care for the older generations?
These questions are not rhetorical. Their answers depend entirely on how we engage with them now.
We Have a Shared Responsibility to Nurture Future Leaders
Our goal must be to help these talented and highly energetic generations prepare for and eventually take over the mantle.
As current leaders, parents, and citizens, we have a profound responsibility to nurture them, not just for their sake, but for the sake of a Kenya and a world that works for all generations.
How Can We Do This Effectively?
Here are some ideas.
1. Instill Values and Character
eyond technical skills, focus on imparting ethical leadership, integrity, empathy, and a deep sense of civic responsibility. This happens through active mentorship, leading by example, and creating environments where these values are practiced and celebrated.
2. Create Space for Innovation and Voice
Actively seek out and empower their ideas. Provide platforms for them to lead, experiment, and even learn from challenges safely. Listen to their perspectives on the economy, governance, and societal issues without judgment.
3. Bridge the Generational Divide
Initiate genuine, empathetic dialogues that acknowledge their aspirations while sharing our own experiences and wisdom. Help them understand historical contexts, not to dismiss their vision, but to build a more informed path forward together.
4. Collaborate for a Shared Vision
Work alongside them to co-create solutions for the challenges facing our country and the world. Their energy and digital fluency, combined with our experience, can forge powerful, sustainable progress.
But Are We Ready to Proactively Nurture Future Leaders?
Are we ready and willing to truly do this?
Are we prepared to adapt, share influence, and invest in a future led by those we sometimes struggle to understand?
“Hayawi, hayawi, huwa” reminds us that unresolved issues will eventually manifest.
We choose what “huwa” means for us, actively or passively.
It’s our responsibility to start moving towards genuine healing, justice, and sustainable progress, individually and collectively.
Let’s commit to engaging constructively and compassionately in our spheres of influence. Let’s also support each other every step of the way to build a future where all generations thrive.
For a deeper dive into the benefits of national healing and the unseen burdens women leaders carry, read my previous blog post, A Nation’s Call And Need For Healing, Hope, And Restoration.
Over to You…
Is there anything else you can add to help anyone who feels stuck even though they desire to nurture future leaders?
How are you contributing to hope, healing, and mentorship in your home, community or workplace? In what ways are you fostering intergenerational understanding and cohesion?
What advice would you give a leader who is in charge of an intergenerational workplace? Especially a leader who has Bookers, GenX, Millennials, and Gen Zs?
I’d love to hear your thoughts, insights, or experiences in the comments below.
(Photo by Hassan Kibwana on Unsplash)
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