The Relevance of the National Youth Policy in Promoting Gen Z's Participation in Decision-Making in Kenya: A Case of Turkana County.

This study explored the impact of Kenya’s National Youth Policy on Generation Z's involvement in decision-making processes in Kenya, focusing specifically on Turkana County. The research sought to understand Gen Z's familiarity with the policy, gauge how well it has created avenues for youth engagement, and pinpoint obstacles hindering their participation. The findings indicate that many young people in Turkana County are unaware of the National Youth Policy and what it entails. Moreover, the policy has not been effectively put into practice, with government bodies often seen as lacking the ability and dedication to encourage youth participation. Young people's involvement in decision-making is often merely symbolic, offering little genuine influence. Numerous factors impede Gen Z's engagement, including issues related to system structures, societal norms, and political landscapes. These challenges encompass poor policy execution, bureaucratic obstacles, entrenched power structures, gender biases, inadequate access to learning and information, a lack of guidance, corruption, and insufficient political commitment. To boost Gen Z's participation, the study suggests improving policy implementation, empowering young people, fostering inclusive governance, backing youth leadership initiatives, and utilizing digital tools. Overcoming these hurdles could enable Kenya to harness the capabilities of its youth, paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.