Invest in young people or lose Kenya’s future – Gachagua warns
By Faith Lagat, September 22, 2025Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has emphasised the central role of Kenya’s youthful population in driving national development, calling for targeted investments to harness their potential.
In a post on X dated September 22, 2025, Gachagua said, “Our country’s greatest asset lies in our youthful population. With a significant proportion of our citizens being young people, it is imperative that we recognise their immense potential and prioritise strategic investments in their development.”
“Yesterday, I had the distinct pleasure of hosting and engaging with young leaders from Kirinyaga County at my Wamunyoro Residence. Their insights, vibrant energy, and commitment to positive change were truly inspiring.”
The remarks come as Gachagua strengthens his political influence following his October 2024 impeachment, with youth engagement forming a key part of his strategy. Kenya’s demographic data shows over 75% of the population is under 35, highlighting the importance of youth-focused initiatives in national planning.
It is worth noting that Gachagua has been a champion of youth leadership. During his tenure as deputy president, he urged leaders to mentor and prepare young people for leadership.
Political strategy and alliances
The engagement at Wamunyoro Residence, recently transformed into a political hub, included cultural exchanges such as the gifting of goats, reflecting traditional alliance-building practices. The event underscores Gachagua’s intent to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 general elections, where he declared his presidential candidacy on September 13, 2025.
Gachagua also defended strategic decisions within the opposition, including the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP)’s choice not to field a candidate in the Mbeere North by-election. “If DCP had fielded a candidate in the Mbeere North by-election, it would have risked splitting the opposition vote, handing the UDA candidate an easy victory,” he explained. The decision reflects efforts to unify Mount Kenya ahead of the 2027 polls.
The second deputy president had earlier accused Ruto of trying to divide the opposition.
Youth empowerment
The Mbeere North by-election has drawn national attention, with UDA endorsing Leonard Muthende, DP backing Newton Kariuki, and Chama Cha Kazi (CCK) fielding Duncan Mbui. Gachagua warned that President William Ruto’s influence could fragment votes in the region, noting that strategic alliances are critical for a consolidated opposition.
Elsewhere, the former deputy president appealed to Gen Zs, whom he referred to as his sons and daughters, to join the opposition by registering as voters ahead of the 2027 elections.
Gachagua’s youth-focused approach resonates with national discussions on empowering young people. Former Chief Justice David Maraga proposed a plan to convert youth creativity into bankable assets, while Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka have called on young Kenyans to engage constructively with the government and reject corruption. These initiatives collectively highlight the growing recognition of youth as agents of progress in Kenya’s development agenda.