This archive report was first published on 10 August 2020.
Published on August 10, 2020, by Nerima Wako-Ojiwa, executive director of Siasa Place.
As the saying goes, 'what an old man can see sitting down, the youth cannot see standing up.' This African proverb emphasizes the value of elderly wisdom, gained through years of experience.
However, this wisdom can sometimes be perceived as a barrier to youth participation and innovation. The elderly often feel the need to offer advice, citing their life experience as a justification for their opinions.
But is this really a valid reason to dismiss the voices of the young? Experience is indeed a valuable teacher, but it's not the only one. Young people bring fresh perspectives and new ideas to the table, which can be just as valuable as the wisdom of their elders.
Take, for example, the recent controversy surrounding Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta's decision to crack down on private clinics offering emergency contraceptives to underage girls. Is this really the best way to address the rising number of child pregnancies?
Many of these girls are victims of rape, and some are as young as 15. Do we have a problem with sexual perpetrators? Do we talk about sex? These are questions that need to be addressed, rather than simply imposing solutions.
As we navigate these complex issues, it's essential that we involve all stakeholders, including the young people who are most affected by them. By working together, we can find solutions that are informed, effective, and respectful of everyone's voice.
Nerima Wako-Ojiwa is the executive director of Siasa Place (@NerimaW).
