Frustrated by systemic corruption, unemployment and rising living costs, young people in Kenya are planning more mass protests on August 8. Social media is flooded with calls to action under the hashtag #NaneNaneMarch.

Despite having a degree in multimedia specializing in television, the 24-year-old has never secured a job in his field.

Systemic corruption and poor governance in Kenya have thwarted his career ambitions, Omondi told DW.

“Every time I apply for a job, I either get no response or I’m told the position has been filled by someone with connections,” he said. “It’s not just about me. It’s about an entire generation that has been failed by our leaders.”

Omondi will join other Kenyans, many of them part of Generation Z, in another round of mass anti-government protests on August 8.

“We will take back our country,” he said. “Our president has tried to make things right, but he just doesn’t get it. So, we want him to resign so that we get a government that cares about us – a new beginning at whatever cost.”

Young people, he told DW, have had enough of corruption and mismanagement in Kenya. “It’s time for change, I have my reasons for protesting which I just shared, but I am sure many Kenyans out there have many more reasons, which might not be similar to mine,” Omondi said.

Other Kenyans have called for an end to the protests. They say that they want to get on with their lives becauseat the moment  businesses across the East African country are shuttered every Tuesday and Thursday.

Shadrack Omondi Orwa is known to many in Kenya as “Omosh One Hour” or “Jakababa,” a vocal critic of the government, both under President William Ruto and his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta.

A prominent comedian and a supporter of the opposition, he often highlights the struggles and frustrations of average Kenyans..

“I understand the anger and frustration of the youth, especially Gen Z, who will be out protesting on August 8,” Orwa said. “But as Kenyans, we are not shocked by this. We support the government and we just want to move forward and work together. We no longer want violence and unrest.”

Orwa believes that constant protests are not a solution. “Gen Z should come up with a leader who can represent their interests effectively,” he said.

“If they can’t do that, then it’s time for the country to move on. We need to focus on working together and creating a stable and peaceful environment for everyone.”

Today’s protest has been organized by a coalition of youth groups and civil society organizations. It is a response to years of economic hardship, high unemployment, and widespread corruption.

The youth-led movement has gained momentum, with social media playing a crucial role in mobilizing support.