On July 16, 2022, the DadaPower Initiative convened the Murang’a Vijana Dialogue at the National Library Hall in Murang’a County. The event aimed to engage youth voters on their crucial role in fostering peaceful elections and making informed decisions during the upcoming August 9, 2022, elections. Targeting first-time voters and young people from various sectors, including social justice center, universities, and the boda boda sector, the event sought to raise youth awareness on their electoral responsibilities, encourage civic engagement, and promote peace during and after the elections.
DadaPower hosted the Murang’a Vijana Dialogue to address several key issues, including the need for youth participation in the electoral process through voter registration, verification, and engagement with leaders’ manifestos. The initiative also emphasized the importance of mobilizing young people to foster civic engagement and ensure peaceful elections within their communities. Furthermore, the dialogue highlighted voting as a critical tool for youth to hold elected leaders accountable for delivering quality services, thereby empowering young citizens to shape governance and drive positive change.
Stella Nderitu, Team Lead at DadaPower, introduced the initiative and emphasized the significance of the Murang’a Vijana Dialogue in promoting youth engagement. Most of the participants were first-time voters, highlighting the potential impact of the youth vote in the 2022 elections. Several key speakers reiterated the importance of voting and peace. Mr. Anthony Adoyo from the Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF) urged the youth to vote for good governance and make Murang’a a peaceful, prosperous county. He stressed the need to avoid tribal politics and reminded young people that their votes are a vital contribution to the nation’s future. The local administration, represented by Assistant Chief Mr. Musa, called on the youth to fulfill their civic duties by voting and maintaining peace. He reminded them that their present choices impact their future.
The dialogue offered young people a platform to express why voting is crucial, emphasizing that it holds elected leaders accountable to their promises. Participants highlighted that voting could address significant economic challenges, such as unemployment and corruption, by electing leaders committed to change. Additionally, they noted that voting supports technological innovations and creates opportunities for young people to acquire skills, earn income, and contribute to the development of their communities.
Several youth leaders, including Bernard Ruiru and Pius Kinuthia, both political aspirants, urged participants to vote for leaders who prioritize peace and development. They highlighted the responsibility of young voters in influencing governance and shaping the future of their communities.
A key outcome of the event was the collective peace pledge made by the youth, where they committed to maintaining peace throughout the election period—before, during, and after voting. They vowed to champion peace within their families and communities and to foster an environment of respect for diverse political opinions. This pledge underscored the youth’s dedication to playing an active role in ensuring a peaceful election process.
To promote this message, peace fliers and stickers with slogans such as “Form Ni Kuvote” and “I Stand for Peace” were distributed, and social media platforms were used to amplify the call for peace.
A notable challenge during the event was the limited participation of young women, which highlighted the need for leadership and engagement training for young women in Murang’a. DadaPower plans to address this by enhancing young women’s capacities to express their views confidently in civic processes.
Post-election, DadaPower aims to continue voter and civic education to ensure active citizenry. Additionally, collaborations with Murang’a University, Kandara Social Justice Centre, and other youth organizations are planned to enhance youth organizing for future elections, including the 2027 general elections and the National Youth Council elections.
In conclusion, the Murang’a Vijana Dialogue on Peace and Elections was a critical step toward amplifying youth voices in electoral processes, promoting peace, and ensuring youth participation in governance, which is essential for the county’s development and the nation’s progress.