On June 18, 2024, protests erupted across the country, sparked by widespread discontent over the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
Dubbed the Gen Z protests or #RejectFinanceBill2024, the demos disrupted Kenya’s political and social order, fueled by anger over proposed tax hikes on fuel, housing, and wages.
The protests became a fertile ground for the emergence of new leaders and activists, whose courage and determination captured the imagination of a nation.
Below is a list of five individuals whose fame was forged in the heat of this generational struggle through Gen Z demos:
Morara Kebaso
Morara Kebaso, a lawyer-turned-activist, rose to prominence as a key figure in the Gen Z protests.
His incisive critiques of the Finance Bill and strategic use of social media galvanized young Kenyans, making him a symbol of their collective resistance.
Morara’s advocacy extended beyond protests against economic policies.
He drew attention to stalled government projects, exposing how public funds had been mismanaged through white elephant projects.
His social media platforms became a repository of evidence, showcasing abandoned infrastructure and demanding accountability from those in power.
Morara’s activism wasn’t without personal cost.
In October, he was arrested at his office in Kahawa Sukari, Nairobi, sparking outrage and a swift online campaign by Gen Z supporters demanding his release.
Earlier, he had been attacked during a public event at Bomas of Kenya discussing the impeachment of then Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Yet, these challenges only strengthened his resolve to champion transparency and responsible governance.
Kasmuel McOure
Kasmuel McOure’s rise during the Gen Z protests showcased his unwavering commitment to social justice.
His outspoken stance against police brutality during the demonstrations earned him widespread respect as a fierce advocate for accountability in a society often plagued by oppression.
Kasmuel’s authenticity resonated deeply with the youth, giving voice to their frustrations and aspirations.
He became a unifying figure, rallying young people to push for systemic change.
Kasmuel’s courage in the face of state repression solidified his reputation as a formidable activist, inspiring a new wave of political engagement among Kenya’s younger generation.
Bradley Marongo
Bradley Marongo first captured attention during the Gen Z protests, where his towering presence made him impossible to ignore.
Marongo joined protesters on the streets of Nairobi to express his frustrations with the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
Standing at an astonishing 8 feet 2 inches, the 27-year-old became a viral sensation, earning widespread attention for his extraordinary height.
Protesters gathered around Marongo, snapping photos with him and sharing them online, which propelled him to internet stardom.
Embracing his newfound fame, Marongo adopted the moniker ‘Gen Z Goliath’ and began leveraging his popularity to create income opportunities.
By August, as the Gen Z protests began to wane, Marongo had secured multiple brand endorsement deals and even launched his own rate card, solidifying his status as both a social and commercial icon.
Shakira Wafula
Shakira Wafula became a household name after a viral video captured her standing fearlessly in front of riot police.
“We are not going anywhere, we are rejecting the Finance Bill. Parliament tutafika, niskume. I am here for Kenya, I am here for my people, I am here for your right! Nitoe, nitoe babaa!” Shakira declared anti-riot police who wanted to eject her.
Her bravery in the face of state oppression turned her into a beacon of hope and resilience.
Shakira’s leadership inspired young people to believe in the power of collective action.
Her fearless stance shattered stereotypes about youth apathy, proving that this generation is both informed and determined to confront systemic injustices.
Through her activism, Shakira became a thought leader, using social media to educate her peers about their rights and galvanize support for meaningful change.
Hanifa Adan
Hanifa Adan’s activism during the Gen Z protests was as transformative as it was impactful.
Using the M-Changa platform, she raised Ksh31 million to support victims of police violence, covering medical expenses, aiding grieving families, and addressing the psychological scars left by brutality.
Hanifa’s commitment to transparency earned her widespread trust, while her advocacy for justice for missing activists highlighted the human cost of state violence.
Despite her arrest during one of the protests, she remained steadfast, embodying the resilience and determination of the youth-led movement.
Through her efforts, Hanifa not only provided tangible relief but also ignited a renewed sense of purpose among her peers.
Her story underscores the power of community and digital platforms in challenging injustice and inspiring hope.
The Gen Z protests of 2024 were more than a response to an unpopular bill. They were a declaration of generational defiance, birthing new leaders who continue to challenge the status quo.
From Morara Kebaso’s calls for accountability to Hanifa Adan’s transformative mobilization, these figures have proven that the youth are not merely the leaders of tomorrow but the changemakers of today.
