Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary-General and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has called on young Kenyans to register as voters and take an active role in shaping their political future.

Speaking at Chungwa House on Saturday, July 19, 2025, Sifuna addressed a group of young women leaders known as the Young Captains, urging them to lead by example in championing democratic participation.

The event, held at the ODM headquarters, was also attended by ODM Women League President Senator Beth Syengo and Nairobi MCA Moses Ogeto. The meeting brought together emerging female leaders committed to expanding their roles in governance and civic engagement.

Sifuna drew from his legal background to emphasise the importance of voter registration as the first step in holding leaders accountable and influencing policy. He noted that the youth, especially young women, must not sit on the sidelines as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.

“The future of this nation belongs to you. Register to vote, participate, and take charge of the decisions that will affect your lives,” Sifuna said.

Inclusivity and youth leadership

Senator Beth Syengo echoed Sifuna’s sentiments, stressing the need for more young women to step into leadership roles. Since 2022, Syengo has championed initiatives aimed at building the capacity of female aspirants, ensuring that women are not only voters but also candidates and policymakers.

Her presence at the event symbolised ODM’s commitment to fostering gender inclusivity in politics. By engaging the Young Captains, Syengo highlighted the party’s focus on nurturing a new generation of female leaders who can influence change from grassroots to national levels.

The Young Captains, dressed in ODM’s signature orange, represent a dynamic movement of aspiring leaders ready to make their mark. Their name reflects a vision of steering Kenya’s political future with the discipline and strategy of captains navigating complex waters.

Voter apathy

The call to action comes at a time when Kenya faces ongoing challenges with voter apathy, especially among the youth. Past elections have shown low registration rates in this demographic, with only 57 per cent of eligible young voters signing up before the 2013 polls.

With the next electoral cycle approaching, leaders like Sifuna and Syengo are determined to reverse this trend. By mentoring young leaders and encouraging civic engagement, ODM aims to ensure that the youth play a central role in shaping Kenya’s political landscape.

This gathering at Chungwa House marks a renewed effort to empower the next generation to lead, vote, and transform the nation’s democratic journey.