Youth push for debt justice as Kenya's tax burden grows

Youth leaders during a debt justice forum at Global Platform Kenya in Nairobi. [Chris Gisiri, Standard]

Youth leaders are demanding a debt audit and the cancellation of costly loans, saying Kenyans are paying higher taxes while services stall and corruption drains public funds.

Kenya spends 78 per cent of its revenue on debt payments, leaving little for health, education and climate action.

Civil society groups and young people met recently at Global Platform Kenya in Nairobi, urging the government to prioritise debt justice.

"We are inheriting a broken system," noted youth leader Magret Sumba. "People pay taxes but cannot see any value while leaders continue borrowing unsustainably," added Sumba.

Participants called for clear debt resolution processes and the cancellation of unmanageable loans while improving domestic financial systems to stop waste and theft.

"The government should not see young people as enemies when we call for accountability," observed youth leader Michael Adiado.

"We are not here to disrupt but to build a better country where every voice is heard and leaders are accountable," explained Adiado.

ActionAid Kenya Interim Executive Director Samson Orao argued that Kenya's debt challenges cannot be solved in isolation.

"Debt justice must go hand in hand with reducing waste, tackling corruption and investing in services," explained Orao, adding, "This is the only way to restore public trust and stability."

The meeting came as Kenyans face delayed county disbursements and growing frustration over new taxes. Youth leaders warned the country's future is at risk if leaders ignore accountability while burdening citizens further.

They pledged to continue amplifying grassroots voices and holding institutions accountable in the push for a fairer economic future.