I watched with fascination on the recent protests in Kenya in June 2024, powered by the Gen Z and millennial groups in that country, which were triggered by the government’s proposed Finance Bill for 2024, which sought to introduce a series of punitive tax increases on essential goods and services.
As I type this post I am wondering if South African youths can be motivated enough to cry for change in a country that is mired in corruption in high place.
What Triggered The Kenyan Youth Protest?
Lets get the context of what triggered this Kenyan protest that was seen around the world. Their Finance Bill wanted raise an approximately $2.7 billion in domestic revenue to bridge the gap in Kenya’s budget deficit and national debt, which at the moment is about 68% of GDP. Some of the irritating proposals that were being proposed included:
– A 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) on basic necessities like bread.
– Increased taxes on mobile money transactions and an annual 2.5% tax on vehicles.
– Eco-taxes on products deemed harmful to the environment, affecting items like diapers and sanitary towels.
These tax measure were not taken lightly by Kenyans. Many Kenyans were under stress already because of the high cost of living and the proposed taxes on essential items felt like a betrayal to many of them, especially since President William Ruto, before the elections had campaigned to champion for ordinary Kenyans aka “hustlers” seeking to make ends meet
Triggering Events
The protests began on June 18, 2024, shortly after the Finance Bill was being approved in Parliament. Young activists had been encouraging themselves up on social media especially Twitter and Tiktok.
They made posters that were printed and distributed to Kenyans. The demonstrations started well across different towns and cities in Kenya but soon escalated dramatically when protesters stormed the Kenyan Parliament on June 25.
Things became violent with at least 50+ deaths and 200+ injuries as law enforcement used live ammunition and tear gas to disperse crowds.
Government Response
On 26th, President Ruto said he would withdraw the bill. He initially called the protesters “criminals” who would be dealt with. His comments drew a lot of anger but a day later he adopted a more reconciliatory tone. He accepted the widespread discontent and stated, “Listening keenly to the people of Kenya who have said loudly that they want nothing to do with this finance bill 2024, I concede”
Many protesters didn’t trust Ruto and were skeptical and continued to demanded for him to resign, fearing that he would introduce similar tax measures under different legislation in the future. (which he is trying to do now).
The protests evolved from a focus on the Finance Bill to broader demands for accountability and reform within the government, reflecting deep-seated frustrations with corruption and mismanagement in Kenya.
The Situation in South Africa
South Africa, like any other country in Africa is still grappling with several economic problems.
High unemployment is still a huge problem in South Africa. Based on the last statistics, unemployment in South Africa was reported to be about 63%, which is significantly higher than the national average of about 34%. Unemployment is contributing to a cycle of poverty and economic disenfranchisement.
I remember when I was starting out in life the frustration and hopelessness I felt when I didn’t have a source of income.
Another problems facing South Africans is high inflation. The prices of essential goods and services have really risen sharply, making it difficult for many homes to make ends meet.
Corruption remains another problem in South Africa. Mismanagement and corruption at different sectors of government brings about disillusionment among citizens, and in particular the youth, who feel abandoned.
Did you also notice that there is a high mismatch between the skills provided by the education system and the needs of the job market?
There are many young people in South Africa who are graduating without the necessary skills to get jobs, which in effect makes people feel hopeless. The problem is made even worse by the rising costs of education, which further limits access for many aspiring students.
Potential for Youth-Led Protests in SA?
Given the economic challenges and the historical context of youth activism in South Africa, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a nationwide youth led protests similar to those seen in Kenya. The protests in Kenya were driven by a combination of economic hardship, dissatisfaction with government policies, and a desire for greater accountability and representation.
There has to be a trigger event that will cause things to boil over. In Kenya, I feel the arrogance of the political class motivated the youths to rise up in large numbers and move together as a block.
The government in South Africa needs to added the issue of joblessness before things become worse. I also know that the government needs to implement policies that address inflation and the rising cost of basic necessities
I remember the recent history of protests in South Africa, such as the Fees Must Fall movement, which show me that its possible for young South Africans to take to the streets to demand change. I see that South Africa faces economic challenges that resonate with the youth, and the potential for organized protests is possible.
The youth may draw inspiration from recent protests in Kenya and leverage their collective frustration to advocate for meaningful change in their country.