New book calls for youth inclusion in African leadership

Lucas Mburu during the launch of the book at Nairobi Club. [File Courtesy]

Kenya has been challenged to stop sidelining its youth and instead embrace their energy, boldness, and demand for change.

This was the message delivered by Dr Lucas Mburu during the launch of his new book “From Millennials to Gen Z: Leadership Insights for Africa” held at the Nairobi Club.

The book explores the evolving dynamics between Millennials and Generation Z, calling for intergenerational dialogue, mentorship, and collaborative leadership models. Inspired by his doctoral research, Dr Mburu says the book was written to help close the gap between older leadership structures and emerging youth voices across Africa.

“Gen Z is not the future—they are the now,” said Dr Mburu. “They are bold, demanding, and unapologetically pushing for change. They feel unheard and misunderstood. This book is about creating space for them.”

He emphasised that young people should not be dismissed or underestimated. “My advice to Gen Z is simple: don’t back off. Keep pushing. This is about your lives, your future. No one should have a conversation about you without you,” he added.

The book addresses a wide array of themes, including spiritual perspectives on generational change, workplace tensions, and the transformative role of digital tools like social media and artificial intelligence in shaping Gen Z’s worldview.

“With Gen Z, everything is fast, digital, and connected. From AI to TikTok, their tools are reshaping society. We can’t afford to remain analogue in a digital world,” Dr Mburu said.

He explained that the book’s title reflects both a generational transition and a growing urgency: “Gen Z is under the microscope. They're everywhere, visible and vocal—but not always understood. The magnifying glass on the cover symbolises the need for deeper engagement.”

From Millennials to Gen Z is now available via Nuria Kenya, an online bookstore offering convenient nationwide delivery, aligning with the very digital culture Gen Z exemplifies.

Dr Mburu urged leaders, educators, parents, and institutions to read the book not just to better understand young people, but to work alongside them.

“We must stop complaining and start mentoring. That’s how we build a successful nation,” he concluded.