The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) convened young people from across the country at Ufungamano House in Nairobi for the 4th National Youth Convening, held from September 21 to 25, 2026.
Held under the theme “Claiming Spaces and Shaping Kenya,” the five-day forum brought together young leaders and stakeholders to discuss governance, civic participation, livelihoods, technology, innovation and leadership.
The convening provided a platform for young people to examine the challenges affecting their generation while exploring practical ways of participating in Kenya’s development. Discussions focused on the need for youth to move beyond being viewed mainly as beneficiaries of programmes or participants during elections and instead take part continuously in policy development, public participation, leadership and oversight.
According to the communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the youth called for governance that is inclusive, transparent, accountable, responsive and citizen-centred. They also highlighted the importance of peaceful, informed and issue-based civic participation as Kenya approaches another electoral cycle.
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Technology and innovation also featured prominently, with participants noting the opportunities presented by digital platforms and artificial intelligence in entrepreneurship, employment, creativity, education and civic engagement. At the same time, they raised concerns over digital exclusion, misinformation, data privacy, limited digital skills and inadequate access to devices, financing and markets.
The youth further called for stronger support for sustainable enterprises, including mentorship, financing, networks and market access. They argued that young people need systems that can help transform ideas and informal “hustles” into viable enterprises and dignified livelihoods.
Mental health and the pressures associated with unemployment, rising living costs, financial difficulties and changing workplace expectations were also identified as issues requiring greater attention.
NCCK General Secretary Rev. Canon Chris Kinyanjui said young people should be recognised as citizens, innovators, entrepreneurs and active partners in shaping Kenya’s present and future.
The gathering concluded with a commitment by participants to claim civic and economic spaces responsibly and work across generations to contribute to a Kenya where governance is inclusive, technology expands opportunity and innovation responds to community needs. The communiqué was signed on September 25 at CSLC Ufungamano House.
