Clashing Similarities Between Gen Z Protests in Kenya and the #EndSars Movement in Nigeria

Due to the challenging governance and societal norms in Africa, the continent has witnessed a wave of youth-led protests, often leveraging social media to amplify their voices and mobilize widespread support. 

Two notable examples are Kenya’s Gen Z protests against punitive tax measures and Nigeria’s End SARS movement, which aimed to end police brutality and impunity. Although these protests happened in different countries and times, these movements share striking similarities in their objectives, tactics, and impacts on their respective societies.

Led by the youths

Both the Gen Z protests in Kenya and the End SARS movement in Nigeria were predominantly led by young people. In Kenya, youths took to the streets to oppose tax hikes proposed in the 2024 Finance Bill, arguing that these measures unfairly burden citizens already struggling with economic challenges. 

Similarly, in Nigeria, the End SARS movement emerged from frustration over the notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), infamous for its brutal treatment of citizens, particularly the youth.

From social media to the streets

Social media played a pivotal role in both movements, serving as platforms for organizing protests, sharing real-time updates, and rallying support both locally and internationally. Hashtags such as #OccupyParliament and #RejectFinanceBill2024 trended in Kenya, while #EndSARS gained global attention, drawing solidarity and condemnation of police brutality across Nigeria.

• In Kenya, young activists utilized platforms like TikTok and WhatsApp to disseminate information about the implications of the Finance Bill and mobilize supporters to pressure lawmakers.
• Meanwhile, in Nigeria, the End SARS movement used social media to expose and document instances of police brutality, amplifying the voices of victims and compelling authorities to address systemic issues.

The demand for government accountability

Both movements demanded transparency, accountability, and reform from their respective governments. In Kenya, protesters sought to hold President William Ruto’s administration accountable for its fiscal policies, which they deemed unfair and detrimental to the populace. 

Similarly, in Nigeria, End SARS protesters demanded justice for victims of police brutality and called for comprehensive police reform to end impunity within law enforcement agencies.

• The Gen Z protests pressured Kenyan lawmakers to reconsider proposed tax measures, prompting President Ruto to make concessions and revise certain provisions of the Finance Bill.
• In Nigeria, despite initial government promises to disband SARS following previous public outcry, the End SARS protests continued until authorities made commitments to investigate police misconduct and implement reforms.

Challenges and repression

Both movements faced significant challenges and government repression. In Kenya, protesters encountered police crackdowns, including tear gas and arrests, yet maintained a largely peaceful approach to demonstrating their grievances.

Similarly, in Nigeria, the peaceful protests at Lekki Toll Gate turned tragic when security forces opened fire on demonstrators, leading to multiple casualties and sparking international outrage.