Addressing Economic Oppression

In June 2024, a wave of protests sparked in Kenya largely driven by a surge of youth activism. The central catalyst was the controversial Finance Bill, a legislative proposal to increase government revenue through various tax measures. However, the bill was met with widespread public outcry, particularly from the Gen Z demographic.

Unlike previous protests characterized by traditional, hierarchical structures, this movement was decentralized and largely leaderless. Social media platforms became the primary battleground, with Gen Z at the forefront. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) were instrumental in mobilizing, informing, and inspiring protesters.

• TikTok: This platform's short-form video format proved exceptionally effective in reaching a younger audience. Creative content, including skits, songs, and informative explainers, transformed complex financial issues into easily digestible content.
• Instagram and X: These platforms were used for broader mobilization, information sharing, and coordination. Hashtags like #OccupyParliament and #RejectFinanceBill2024 went viral, facilitating communication among protesters and amplifying their voices.

The Finance Bill 2024 was a complex document packed with provisions that ignited public fury. Let's break down some of the most contentious points:

• VAT on Bread: A proposed 16% VAT on bread sparked outrage, threatening to increase the cost of a staple food for millions. Public pressure successfully led to its removal.
• Excise Duty on Vegetable Oil: A 25% excise duty on vegetable oils faced intense opposition, as it would have significantly increased the cost of cooking oil and affected related products. This provision was also scrapped.
• VAT on Sugar Cane Transportation: The proposed sugar cane transportation tax was met with consumers' and farmers' resistance, fearing increased sugar prices. It was subsequently removed.
• VAT on Financial Services and Forex Transactions: Plans to increase taxation on financial services and forex transactions were met with public outcry and ultimately withdrawn.
• Mobile Money Transfer Charges: A proposed increase in mobile money transfer charges faced backlash and was reversed.
• Motor Vehicle Tax: The most controversial provision, perhaps, was the proposed motor vehicle tax based on car value. Protests erupted against this perceived unfair burden on vehicle owners, leading to its removal.
• Housing Fund and Social Health Insurance Levies: While these levies remained, they were converted into tax deductibles, offering some relief to taxpayers.
• Eco Levy: The government scaled back the proposed eco levy, limiting its application to imported finished products.

These are just some of the provisions that sparked intense public debate. The Finance Bill, in its entirety, represented a battleground where the government's financial objectives clashed with the aspirations of its citizens, particularly the youth.

The Finance Bill sparked protests and brought to light the underlying issues affecting the youth in Kenya. High unemployment, pervasive corruption, and limited opportunities have left many feeling marginalized and discouraged. The protests have become a platform for people to voice their widespread frustrations.

Social media ignited the flames of protest in Kenya. But how did this digital revolution truly unfold? Discover the power of viral content, the government's response, and the global impact in Episode 2. Don't miss it!