NAIROBI, Kenya – In a move to address the concerns of the youth following anti-finance bill protests led by GenZs, President William Ruto has announced the formation of a National Multi-Sectorial Forum (NMSF).
The announcement, made during his national address on June 26, 2024, aims to engage all stakeholders in a comprehensive dialogue to resolve the issues raised by the young protestors.
According to the press release from the Executive Office of the President, all national-level umbrella organizations representing various sectors such as youth, civil society, religious organizations, professional bodies, business community organizations, academia, student leadership, and political leaders are requested to nominate two representatives of either gender.
These representatives will form the National Steering Committee (NSC) of the NMSF, which will consist of 100 members.
The NSC will be the apex organ of the NMSF, responsible for providing the framework, modalities, agenda, and timelines for a nationwide dialogue on the issues raised by the youth.
The forum will independently carry out its activities across all 47 counties, focusing on a participatory, citizen-centric, and inclusive process from the ward level.
Key matters to be addressed include: jobs and other opportunities, the nation’s tax policy, the national debt burden, representation and accountability, anti-corruption measures, and any other relevant agenda items.
The President emphasized that the process would be inclusive, allowing every Kenyan and all stakeholders the opportunity to present their proposals in person, remotely, individually, or as groups.
The NSC will also facilitate engagement with political leaders in a bipartisan manner.
The nominations for representatives are expected to be received by the Executive Office of the President on or before July 7, 2024.
The President will facilitate the first sitting of the NSC, where the committee will independently identify the leadership of the forum.
