Approximately 75% of Kenya’s population is comprised of youth. Yet young people make up only 6.5% of the country’s Parliament.

What is keeping young people out of politics? And how can we break down the barriers that hold them back?

In order to answer these questions, NIMD supported a study on the role of youth in Kenya’s 11^th and 12^th Parliaments.

The study

The research aimed to promote the inclusion of youth in political processes and decision-making roles.

It was carried out by our partner, Mzalendo Trust, an organization dedicated to facilitating public participation in parliamentary processes through information sharing, research and networking.

With NIMD’s support Mzalendo Trust analysed the gains made, challenges experienced, and opportunities available for promoting youth participation in electoral and governance processes in Kenya.

The research is made up of three main sections:

1. Models on youth inclusion from selected jurisdictions
   The researchers present best practices on youth inclusion from around the world.

2. The legal framework for youth political participation and representation in Kenya
   Delving into the Kenyan context, the researchers explore the legal provisions that are already in place.

3. An analysis of the participation of youth MPs during the 11^th and 12^th Parliaments
   By exploring the work of youth in parliament, Mzalendo shines a light on the changes they are leading, and highlights the challenges they  face.

Findings and recommendations

One of the key findings from the research was that youth MPs do not receive enough support from political parties and other stakeholders.

The report highlighted a number of barriers that hinder youth MPs, for example the effect of money, power and influence on who gets elected to Parliament; and lack of a democratic culture during nominations.

In light of this, Mzalendo trust puts forward a series of recommendation, including:

• Amending the 2013 Elections Act to provide for a specified number of nomination slots for persons aged 35 and below
• Strengthening youth leagues/wings in political parties,
• Mobilizing cross-party support for review of nomination rules to ensure more youth get into Parliament

Download the report for the full list of recommendations.