NAIROBI, Kenya- A new wave of protests is looming in Kenya, with Gen Z activists mobilising online and on the streets as rising fuel prices deepen the country’s cost-of-living crisis.
The latest fuel price hike has pushed petrol and diesel above KSh200 per litre, sparking widespread anger and reigniting calls for mass action.
Digital mobilisation gains momentum
Across social media platforms, young Kenyans are once again taking the lead—organising, sharing protest messages, and amplifying calls for demonstrations.
The mobilisation mirrors the 2024 anti-tax protests, where Gen Z activists used platforms like X, TikTok and Instagram to coordinate nationwide demonstrations that forced policy reversals.
Analysts say the same digital networks are now being reactivated, with hashtags and viral content driving momentum for potential street action.
Cost of living at breaking point
The renewed agitation is largely driven by economic pressure, as high fuel prices continue to push up transport, food, and basic commodity costs.
Kenya’s heavy reliance on imported fuel has exposed the country to global shocks, with recent increases linked to rising crude oil prices and supply disruptions.
For many households, the cumulative effect has been devastating, with activists warning that more Kenyans are being pushed into financial distress.
Government pushes back on protest calls
However, President William Ruto has dismissed calls for demonstrations, arguing that protests will not lower fuel prices.
“Some people are saying that because prices have gone up, they want to protest. If you protest, will the prices come down?” he said, urging alternative solutions to address the crisis.
The President maintained that the government is focused on stabilising prices and cushioning citizens from global economic pressures.
Gen Z-led protests have become a defining feature of Kenya’s recent political landscape, driven by frustrations over rising taxes, unemployment, and governance issues.
In both 2024 and 2025, youth-led demonstrations, largely organised online, escalated into nationwide movements demanding accountability and economic relief.
More than 200 youth were shot dead by police during the protests and many others left with injuries.
With fuel prices now at record highs, observers warn that Kenya could be on the brink of another major wave of unrest.
