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Kenya's Political Landscape Shifts: The DNA and KIKAO Alliance for Youth
Gerald Kombo
August 05, 2025
In a defining political moment, the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) launched its Youth Movement and officially welcomed the KIKAO Youth Movement into its structure. The event, held in Karen, Nairobi, signaled a generational turning point in Kenya’s political landscape.
“It is a revolutionary moment. From today, DNA becomes the political home of Gen Z and Millennial leadership in Kenya.”
Rooted in Crisis, Driven by Purpose
Kenya’s youth face a staggering crisis: over 35% are unemployed, and millions more are stuck in informal jobs, low pay, and chronic exclusion from decision-making spaces.
“This is about survival. Young people are abducted, tortured, and killed for daring to speak out.”
The tone of the day was defiance. No more being hypemen, extras, or pawns in political theater. This alliance aims to permanently disrupt youth marginalization in Kenya.
Building Real Political Power
The DNA Youth Movement is not symbolic. It is a structured political platform for grassroots organizing, mentorship, and leadership training.
“Youth will no longer beg for seats at the table. We are building our own.”
The integration of KIKAO, already active in over 40 counties, adds organizing muscle and credibility. With a solid foundation in civic education and community engagement, KIKAO now drives DNA’s youth strategy nationwide.
“KIKAO is not a slogan. It’s a movement with muscle.”
A Sharp Critique of Political Norms
Kenya’s political elite were called out for decades of performative inclusion and gatekeeping. The alliance made one thing clear: no more tokenism.
“The youth are not the future. They are the present. And they will no longer ask for permission to lead.”
The message was a direct call to organize, run for office, and lead with vision and accountability.
And they weren’t done.
Corruption Disguised as Empowerment
The gathering issued a scathing rebuke of government-led “youth empowerment” programs often lacking transparency.
“It’s theft disguised as empowerment. Carrying cash in bags to fundraisers with no traceable budget is not leadership—it’s stealing.”
The call for accountability, ethics, and public finance transparency rang out loud and clear.
Critical Policy Demands
The newly introduced Social Health Authority (SHA) came under fire, accused of failing to provide affordable healthcare access for youth.
“If healthcare under SHA is free, then why are youth paying KSh 600, 1,000—even 2,000—just to register?”
“Visit the hospitals. Don’t sit in State House lying to the President. SHA is not working.”
The alliance also demanded free, accessible National IDs for all Kenyan youth.
“A national ID is a right. No young person should pay even a single shilling for what is rightfully theirs.”
Eyes on 2027: A Tsunami Is Coming
With DNA positioning itself as the political home for youth, attention now turns to the 2027 general elections.
“2027 will be the youth tsunami. The only question is—will you be part of the wave or watch it pass you by?”
Plans are already underway to launch training, mentorship, and candidate support programs across all 47 counties.
A Revolution in Motion
The DNA–KIKAO alliance is not just another coalition. It is a deliberate, strategic, and values-driven movement redefining youth leadership in Kenya.
“DNA is your home. Your voice. Your power.”