This archive report was first published on 14 November 2019.
As the world grapples with various issues, young people across the globe have been vocal about the problems affecting their communities. However, in Kenya, a stark contrast exists, with young people largely silent on pressing issues, including the public debt crisis.
According to economists, Kenya's public debt has reached a staggering Sh6 trillion, more than tripling in just six years, from Sh1.8 trillion in 2013 to Sh6 trillion in 2019. This alarming rise in debt has significant implications for the country's future, with debt repayment obligations already limiting government expenditure on essential services like healthcare and education.
The government's reliance on borrowing from local banks, having exhausted credit options abroad, has further exacerbated the situation. This not only denies local businesses the credit they need to grow and create employment but also limits the government's ability to pay taxes.
As the Kenya Revenue Authority has failed to meet revenue targets since 2013, the country is heading towards a precarious future, where it will have significant debt but limited domestic economy to repay and generate revenue for social services and economic growth. The consequences will be severe, including job losses, extreme poverty, social strife, insecurity, and political upheaval.
It is puzzling that young people, who stand to lose the most, are largely absent from the conversation on this critical issue. What are they saying about the rising unsustainable public debt? Are they aware of the grave implications of bad debt policies made by the current administration on their future?
Truth be told, young people in Kenya have failed the leadership test, and on this public debt issue, appear far removed from conversations about how Kenya is hurtling towards a disastrous crisis. When China and other creditors come to auction national assets after default, the old men and women signing loan deals today will be long gone, leaving young Kenyans to handle the mess and answer to their children.
It is ironic that young Kenyans are amongst the most dynamic in Africa, with more education, ICT-savviness, innovation, freedom, and openness. However, they fail those who fought for liberties they enjoy today by not standing up to act and training their eyes away from critical issues that threaten their future.
The writer is the executive director of the Africa Centre for People Institutions and Society.
