The spirit of Sabasaba, a defining moment in Kenya's struggle for democracy in the 1990s, has been revitalized by a new wave of youth activism, spearheaded by Generation Z. Sabasaba, marked by mass protests on July 7, 1990, symbolized resistance against authoritarian rule and the fight for multiparty democracy. Today, young Kenyans are invoking this legacy to demand reforms and accountability from the government.
This new generation, having grown up in a digital age, is leveraging social media to mobilize and advocate for social justice, transparency, and economic opportunities. They resonate with the defiance of the 1990s, channeling it into movements against corruption, police brutality, and unemployment. Their protests echo the calls for freedom and fair governance that defined Sabasaba, underscoring a continuity of the struggle for a more equitable Kenya.
The resurgence of the Sabasaba spirit among Gen Z reflects a broader global trend of youth-led activism, highlighting the enduring power of collective action. By reviving the ethos of the 1990s, these young activists are shaping Kenya’s future, underscoring that the fight for democratic ideals and systemic change remains as relevant today as it was three decades ago.
Link
https://nation.africa/kenya/weekly-review/saba-saba-spirit-how-1990s-defiance-reforms-has-been-revived-by-new-youth-revolt-4681938