Kenyans took to X spaces to voice their concerns, organize protests, fundraise for medical supplies and support families affected by police brutality. Individuals and groups contributed water, snacks, and even PA systems to support protestors, infusing art and pop culture into the protests, from street fashion to music. Songs like “Kudade” and “Anguka Nayo” became anthems of the movement. Protestors even boldly invited the president on X, calling him to accountability.

In this context, Lamarck’s theory of use and disuse is relevant. Had we not replaced emotive responses with civic education about the powers we hold as citizens, would we have changed the narrative around protests? Likely not. Although Kenya has had its current constitution since 2010, it wasn’t until 2024 that protests became more impactful. Despite any assumptions or gaps in the #RejectFinanceBill2024 movement, the focus remains on the collective power of a citizenry that understands and exercises its civic responsibilities. Kenyan youths demonstrated as much.

As a #BetterAncestor, the way to strengthen this muscle and pass it on to future generations is by exercising our civic duties for a fair future. Civic engagement is a muscle that needs to be worked regularly to grow, and this is a trait future generations can inherit and build upon.

For me, this means knowing who my representatives are and holding them accountable, attending citizen assemblies (mostly on X), participating in community forums, and making my voice heard at the ballot box. How are you taking charge in your community? What excites you most about exercising your civic muscle as a citizen?