Report on Kenya’s Nationwide Anti-Government Protests and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Implications

Overview of Recent Protests and Government Response

On Wednesday, Kenya experienced nationwide anti-government protests resulting in 19 demonstrators dead and at least 500 injured due to gunfire, as reported by Amnesty International. Security forces employed tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition against protesters. Concurrently, some demonstrators engaged in violence, including looting in Nairobi and other regions.

The protests marked the first anniversary of the 2024 demonstrations when 60 people were killed during a storming of parliament. The government’s stringent response included an emergency order by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) banning live coverage of the protests, raising significant concerns about freedom of expression. Although the order was revoked by judges, the incident highlighted challenges to civil liberties.

Emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – The use of excessive force and restrictions on media coverage undermine peaceful protest rights and freedom of expression.
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – The protests reflect growing dissatisfaction among youth regarding economic inequality and lack of equal opportunities.
• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Economic grievances and unmet social reform promises have fueled unrest, highlighting the need for inclusive economic development.

Youth Discontent and Government Relations

The majority of protesters belong to Generation Z, born in the late 1990s to early 2010s. Initial protests against a proposed tax law evolved into broader demonstrations addressing economic hardship and social inequality. Despite promises of reform by President William Ruto, financial burdens remain high for many families.

Key Points on Youth Engagement

1. Generation Z’s activism reflects their awareness of constitutional rights and demand for social justice.
2. The government’s historical intolerance of dissent has exacerbated tensions.
3. Young people’s estrangement from political leadership threatens social cohesion and sustainable development.

Censorship and Violence Against Journalists

The government’s attempts to restrict live media coverage of protests have been criticized as efforts to conceal public outrage. Journalists face significant risks, including targeted violence by security forces despite clear press identification. Such actions compromise transparency and accountability.

Implications for SDGs

• SDG 16 – Protecting journalists is essential for upholding justice, transparency, and strong institutions.
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Free and safe media environments foster innovation and informed public discourse.

Risks to Activists and Civil Society

Social media activists and bloggers have increasingly become targets of state repression. Notable cases include the death of anti-corruption activist Albert Ojwang in police custody and the detention of software developer Rose Njeri for creating a tool to oppose tax legislation. Laws against cybercrime have been described as political instruments to suppress dissent.

Key Concerns

1. Suppression of digital activism threatens freedom of expression and civic participation.
2. Targeting marginalized voices undermines inclusive governance.
3. Such repression conflicts with SDG 16 and SDG 5: Gender Equality, as women and minority activists are also affected.

Government Characterization of Protests and Future Outlook

The government labeled the protests as an “attempted coup” by “criminal anarchists,” signaling a hardline stance with little indication of concessions. Protesters emphasize their constitutional rights and demand development and growth opportunities.

SDG-Related Challenges and Recommendations

• SDG 1: No Poverty and SDG 8 – Addressing economic grievances through inclusive policies is critical to reducing poverty and fostering growth.
• SDG 16 – Promoting peaceful dialogue and protecting civil liberties can strengthen institutions and social stability.
• Engagement with youth and marginalized groups is essential to achieving sustainable development and preventing further unrest.

Conclusion

The ongoing protests in Kenya highlight critical challenges related to governance, human rights, and socio-economic development. Aligning government policies with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 16, SDG 10, and SDG 8, is imperative to foster peace, justice, equality, and economic opportunity for all citizens, especially the youth.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Issues of police violence, impunity, and the use of excessive force against protesters and journalists.
   • Concerns about freedom of expression and censorship, including the banning of live coverage of protests.
   • Legal and political repression of activists and journalists.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Economic dissatisfaction and lack of equal opportunities among youth, particularly Generation Z.
   • Protests triggered by economic burdens and social inequality.
3. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Youth unemployment and economic grievances leading to protests.
   • Failure of government promises to reduce financial burdens and create social reform.
4. SDG 5: Gender Equality
   • Implied through mention of female journalists and activists targeted by violence and repression.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Target 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.
   • Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements.
   • Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
3. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Target 8.6: Reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training.
   • Target 8.5: Achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including young people.
4. SDG 5: Gender Equality
   • Target 5.5: Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic and public life.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. For SDG 16:
   • Indicator 16.1.1: Number of victims of intentional homicide per 100,000 population, by sex and age (related to deaths of protesters).
   • Indicator 16.10.1: Number of verified cases of killing, kidnapping, enforced disappearance, arbitrary detention and torture of journalists, associated media personnel, trade unionists and human rights advocates (related to violence against journalists and activists).
   • Indicator 16.3.1: Proportion of victims of violence in the previous 12 months who reported their victimization to competent authorities or other officially recognized conflict resolution mechanisms (related to impunity and justice).
2. For SDG 10:
   • Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 per cent of median income, by age, sex and persons with disabilities (implied through economic inequality and dissatisfaction).
3. For SDG 8:
   • Indicator 8.6.1: Proportion of youth (aged 15-24 years) not in education, employment or training.
   • Indicator 8.5.2: Unemployment rate, by sex, age and persons with disabilities.
4. For SDG 5:
   • Indicator 5.5.2: Proportion of women in managerial positions (implied through mention of female journalists and activists).

4. Table of SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: dw.com