A Generation of Courage: Why Kenyan Children Must be Raised To Build A Just, Patriotic, And Democratic Nation

In a country that has borne witness to great promises, shattered dreams, and a fragile hope held by the threads of resilience, it is our duty to instill a deep, unwavering love for Kenya in the hearts of our children. This patriotism must extend beyond mere loyalty to any political leader; it must root itself in a love for the land, the people, and the collective vision for justice and prosperity. “A child who does not know where they come from will stumble in the darkness,” as an old proverb tells us. To pave a new path, our young generation must first understand the purpose and dignity of patriotism, unshackling it from political manipulation.

Central to this journey is the understanding of taxation—a concept as ancient as governance itself and often misunderstood. Tax is not just money forcibly taken by the state; it is the very lifeblood of a functioning society. Kenyan children must grasp that every shilling they contribute in taxes fuels hospitals, schools, and roads. When Kenyans pay 16% VAT or when a liter of fuel is taxed 55%, these numbers represent the cost of infrastructure and public welfare. Taxes connect us to each other, forming an invisible network of mutual dependence. Yet, “When the mouth feeds only itself, the body perishes”; taxation without service delivery is like a tree without roots. Children must learn to demand that their contributions bear fruit, nurturing an intolerance for the misuse of these funds.

Patriotism, however, extends beyond funding infrastructure—it is a commitment to safeguarding Kenya’s identity and values. It is the commitment to truth, which demands that we teach history in its entirety. Kenyan history is not just the pride of independence but the scars left by colonial brutality, the manipulation of ethnic divisions, and the perils of single-party rule. “A river that forgets its source will dry up in the sun.” Our children must be taught the reality of our past to discern truth from the endless streams of propaganda. Knowing our history guards them against the temptation of blind allegiance to charismatic yet destructive leaders.

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Moreover, respect for life, the most sacred gift, is the foundation of a society that values every citizen. Kenya has experienced unspeakable violence—both physical and systemic—that should serve as a reminder that every Kenyan life is invaluable. From extrajudicial killings to gender-based violence, each form of life-degrading violence chips away at the nation’s soul. By teaching our children to respect life, we instill in them an intolerance for policies and leaders that dehumanize individuals for political gain. Life must be valued beyond the ballot box, creating a society where every person has the opportunity to thrive without fear.

Adherence to the rule of law is the backbone of democracy, ensuring equality and justice for all. Our children need to understand that laws are not mere guidelines but the fabric that binds society. “A kingdom divided cannot stand,” and a society that picks and chooses which laws to follow invites chaos and disorder. When the law is selectively enforced, trust in government crumbles, and the most vulnerable suffer first. Teaching children to honor the law cultivates a respect or order and accountability and builds resilience against any leader who seeks to trample these safeguards.

Intolerance for corruption must be at the heart of Kenyan children’s education. Corruption costs Kenya more than KSh 600 billion annually, bleeding the country dry. It is not a victimless crime but a silent thief that steals opportunities, widens inequality, and breeds resentment. “When termites eat a house, it is weakened from within.” Corruption undermines the integrity of institutions and fills public offices with individuals who serve personal interests over national well-being. Our children must know that tolerance for corruption today creates a broken Kenya tomorrow, one where justice is for sale to the highest bidder.

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Similarly, tribalism has plagued Kenya, eroding national unity and paving the way for political exploitation. Our children must understand that they are Kenyans first, bound by a shared destiny that tribal lines cannot break. “A single bracelet does not jingle”; true strength lies in unity. They should be taught that tribalism is an archaic relic used by the power-hungry to keep citizens divided and disempowered. By promoting unity, we cultivate a generation that stands together, unyielding against leaders who exploit ethnic divisions.

Incompetence should have no place in public office, yet it is often tolerated and even rewarded. When leaders lack the skills and dedication to manage the nation’s resources, the consequences ripple through every aspect of society, from healthcare to infrastructure. “The carpenter’s tool that fails should be set aside.” Children should learn to recognize and demand competency in leadership, understanding that every failed policy or botched project represents lives affected and potential unrealized.

Lastly, intolerance toward human rights abuses is essential in building a nation that values dignity for all. Kenyans have long endured oppression, often forced into silence by fear. However, “Silence in the face of injustice is betrayal.” Children must learn that human rights are not privileges given by the government but rights that are inherent to every individual. By cultivating a sense of justice, we equip them with the courage to speak out against any form of abuse, creating a Kenya where every citizen’s voice is valued.

These teachings are not mere aspirations; they are necessities. Without a generation that understands the gravity of these values, Kenya risks cycling through the same crises that have hindered its progress. The foundation of change lies in our homes and schools, in conversations with young minds that are not yet tainted by the cynicism of failed promises. Children who understand the purpose of taxation, the sanctity of patriotism, and the critical importance of truth will grow to become leaders who respect life, uphold the rule of law, and reject the vices that weaken the nation.

The numbers support the urgency of this mission. With over 75% of Kenyans under 35, the future rests on shoulders that must be fortified by these principles. If just a fraction of this demographic commits to these values, the change could be profound. Studies show that nations with educated, civically engaged youth are less susceptible to corruption and authoritarianism. By teaching these principles, we can shift Kenya’s trajectory toward sustainable growth and equitable governance.

In the end, our collective mission is to ensure that Kenya’s future leaders are guided by a strong moral compass and an unbreakable sense of duty. “A nation without principles is like a body without a soul.” As custodians of this land, we owe it to ourselves and future generations to teach them that patriotism, democracy, and justice are not just ideals but the bedrock of a prosperous Kenya. Let us teach them to be fearless, relentless, and hopeful, for a nation built on such values cannot falter.

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