By Joe Aura
contact: aurajoe6@gmail.com
{image by Getty Images}
As a budding storyteller and writer, I love having meaningful conversations about Africa and the world, especially those that offer diverse perspectives. Our different cultures and viewpoints can educate, inform, and entertain the public, helping us learn from our mistakes, gain new experiences, and look forward to a better tomorrow. Recently, I came across an intriguing interaction by DW titled “Can Kenya’s Protests Change the Status Quo?“—a thought-provoking review that is definitely worth sharing.
“The 77 Percent” is a magazine dedicated to Africa’s youth, as approximately 77 percent of Africans are younger than 35, making them a dynamic and politically active demographic. However, they are also the least represented group across the continent. The magazine aims to give these young voices a platform to discuss critical issues, share personal stories, and shape Africa’s future. From hard-hitting reports to lively discussions, “The 77 Percent” covers topics like tradition, culture, sports betting, beauty trends, and more.
Check out this excellent review of DW’s episode “The 77 Percent” focusing on Kenya’s protests! This episode has been making waves, climbing to #18 on Trending with over 110,000 views! It delves deep into the youth-led protests in Kenya, sparking a nationwide movement for change.
Overview of the Episode
In an era where media plays a pivotal role in shaping societal narratives, DW’s “The 77 Percent” stands out as a vibrant platform for Africa’s youth. The recent episode titled “Can Kenya’s protests change the status quo?” encapsulates the dynamic energy and pressing concerns of young Kenyans as they strive for a better future.
The episode, which premiered on July 23, 2024, and quickly climbed to #18 on Trending with over 110,000 views, dives deep into the heart of Kenya’s burgeoning youth movement. It traces the evolution of protests that began in June 2024 against controversial tax hikes, which soon escalated into a broader demand for systemic change and President Ruto’s resignation.
Key Discussion Points
Background and Trigger: The initial protests were instigated by the #RejectTheFinancebill movement, which contested severe tax proposals. This fiscal dissatisfaction rapidly transformed into regular demonstrations demanding government transparency and reform.
State Response: President Ruto’s administration faced significant pressure, prompting certain changes in the cabinet. However, the reinstatement of specific individuals further fueled the protesters’ ire, as they advocated for integrity and governance guided by technological expertise.
Protest Outcomes: With over 50 casualties and numerous detentions, the protests have highlighted the pressing necessity for substantive dialogue between the government and the younger generation to address long-standing grievances.
Audience Engagement
The episode has sparked significant discussion, drawing over 402 contributions in the comments section. This episode not only captured the essence of the protests but also deeply resonated with its target audience, as evidenced by the diverse array of perspectives shared in the comments. Viewers’ reactions highlighted the show’s impact, with many praising Edith Kimani’s return and her exceptional journalistic skills.
The comments section revealed a strong engagement from international viewers, demonstrating the show’s wide-reaching influence. For instance, a 79-year-old viewer from Texas expressed solidarity with the youth’s fight against corruption, stating, “I am 79 and mzungu but I love how these young gens are about ending the tyranny of the corrupt class.” This sentiment was mirrored by viewers from Nigeria and Bangladesh, showcasing a global support network for the Kenyan protests. One comment from a Bangladeshi viewer stated, “After 6 days of nightmare, I’m here to support Kenyan local people. Love from Bangladesh.”
Critiques of specific individuals involved in the discussion also emerged, with the former Police Spokesperson facing significant backlash. Viewer @The_BrandNyamodhi commented, “That clown in the name of former Police Spokesperson has no moral authority to speak! He’s rotten to the core.” Another comment by @patrickwambura6082 emphasized systemic issues, stating, “Police in Kenya don’t have proper training to handle demonstrations; they still have that colonial mentality.”
The engagement revealed the audience’s shared frustration with systemic issues in Kenya, such as police brutality and government corruption. However, it also showcased a sense of pride and hope in the youth’s drive for change. Viewer @joela87485 expressed this sentiment powerfully, “It’s grievous to see such people being ready to fight the good course by young people who are our backbone tomorrow. My spirit and strength are with you, behind every youth.”
Reflections
The forum offered a raw and unfiltered look at the feelings of young Kenyans. The outdoor setting, along with the passionate expressions of the participants, created an engaging and authentic atmosphere. Among the notable voices was Edith Kimani, the host, whose adept handling of the discussion stood out. Her ability to fact-check participants while giving them space to voice their opinions highlighted her professionalism and journalistic integrity.
This review not only documents a significant moment in Kenya’s history but also provides valuable insights for content creation, making it a must-read for students and professionals. The episode is a testament to the power of media in amplifying important conversations and youth activism.
DW’s “The 77 Percent” episode on Kenyan protests is a powerful example of how media can foster important conversations and spotlight youth activism. The production team’s effort to create a lively and professional forum succeeded in engaging and educating viewers. The episode not only documented a significant moment in Kenya’s history but also provided a platform for young voices to be heard, thereby contributing to the broader discourse on Africa’s future.
This review aims to provide both academic and professional insights into the episode, making it suitable for students and professionals on LinkedIn. It appreciates the forum for giving Kenyans a platform to air their views and commends the production team for creating engaging and relevant content.
Edith Kimani: A Profile
Edith Kimani is a seasoned journalist with a decade of experience. Joining DW in 2015, she has since become a prominent figure, known for her work on environmental issues and high-level debates. Her role in “The 77 Percent” showcases her commitment to amplifying African voices and addressing critical issues on the continent.
During the show, I was profoundly inspired by Edith Kimani’s exceptional poise and professionalism. She seamlessly managed the discussion, giving her audience the space to express their views while meticulously fact-checking them like a seasoned journalist.