Panelists engage Kibera residents during the NCIC transgenerational conversation at CFK Africa, where youth, elders, and community leaders shared their views on governance, peace, and accountability.
By Peace Muthoka.
Nairobi, Kenya – Kibera residents today gathered at CFK Africa to take part in a transgenerational conversation themed “A Quest for Better Governance, Social and Political Decency, and Accountability in Kenya.” The dialogue, led by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) in partnership with UNDP-KOICA, brought together young people, community leaders, and elders eager to share their frustrations and hopes for a more inclusive Kenya.
The meeting is part of a wider series of county-level engagements aimed at transforming public discourse, combating hate speech, and strengthening peace and security. Earlier this week, similar sessions were held in Kangemi and Kawangware.
NCIC Chairperson Rev. Samuel Kobia said the forums were designed to give ordinary citizens, especially young people in informal settlements, a platform to air their views. He noted that Nairobi was chosen as a key starting point because of its concentration of marginalized communities.
NCIC Chairperson Rev. Samuel Kobia addresses Kibera residents during the transgenerational conversation at CFK Africa, urging young people to speak out on governance, peace, and accountability.
“Young people in these areas often feel excluded from opportunities and overlooked in national debates,” Kobia explained. “They are saying they want jobs, they want fairness, and they want leaders who listen. Our role is to ensure their voices lead to action, not just empty promises.”
Residents did not hold back. They spoke of unemployment, lack of access to education, and the pain of being treated as tokens during government consultations. Many said they wanted leaders to stop making political speeches in churches, describing it as disrespectful and divisive.
What stood out most was the passion of the youth, who insisted that they should no longer be ignored. Their words echoed Kenya’s recent wave of youth activism, reminding leaders of the power and determination of Gen Z.
Rev. Kobia promised that NCIC will push for a multi-agency approach to address the concerns raised. He stressed that real change would come only if government agencies work together to create opportunities and ensure fairness in recruitment, education, and governance.
As the meeting closed, one could sense both frustration and hope in the room. For Kibera residents, the conversation was not just about policies it was about dignity, opportunity, and a future where their voices truly count.
