Hello, The Millenials Readers,

Today, we will talk about a pressing issue that I believe is affecting many of us – the hard-hitting economic times. You wake up every day wondering what to expect next, and it’s hard not to feel overwhelmed by the uncertainty of it all. But you’re not alone. As millennials and Gen Z, we’re in this together, and we can find hope by sharing our stories and struggles.

Let me share a personal story that might resonate with you. I went shopping the other day, armed with 2000 shillings in my pocket. Sounds like a lot, right? I know some of you will be asking, “Hio Yote, Kwani Uko Illuminati?” (That is a lot of money, are you in Illuminati?) Anyway, that was my long-term saving with the agenda of surprising my house with some shopping. But as I walked around the supermarket, I quickly realized that it wouldn’t go very far. Prices were so high that even buying basic necessities like tissue and cooking oil left me feeling financially drained. It’s a harsh reality that many of us are facing – the cost of living has skyrocketed, and our hard-earned money doesn’t go as far as it used to.

But it’s not just about personal finances. The economic downturn has had far-reaching effects, from businesses closing down to widespread hunger and deaths in many parts of the country. It’s a tough time to be living in, especially for millennials and Gen Z, who are facing unique challenges.

For starters, high levels of unemployment mean that many young people are struggling to make ends meet. Even entry-level jobs require years of experience, making it challenging for those just starting out. And for those who do manage to secure employment, wages are often low, making it difficult to save or invest for the future. The situation has become even harder in the “Serikali Ya Hustler.” I am now wondering if the hustle was literal to mean we will toil under this government.

Debt is another issue that is plaguing many young people. With the rising cost of living, it’s becoming increasingly challenging to cover basic expenses, leading many to turn to loans and credit cards to make ends meet. But unregulated mobile loan companies are preying on the desperate, trapping them in a vicious cycle of debt. A few days ago, I was talking to some bodaboda rider, and when I wanted to pay him through his Mpesa, he shouted don’t send to my numbers, it will be “eaten” by fuliza.

He gave me another phone number, and a female name popped up when I sent the money. He told me that his wife’s number does not have fuliza. He then started lamenting how Fuliza, Branch, and Tala were on his toes, and he had nothing to pay them. This left me wondering how many people out here face the same challenges.

All of these challenges have led to calls for action, with many young people taking to the streets to demand change. Young people have been particularly vocal and have taken to the streets to demand change. Notably, opposition leader Raila Amollo Odinga has been at the forefront of these demonstrations, leading protests in various parts of the country. Thousands of people have participated in these events, which serves as a testament to the prevailing state of affairs in the country.

In our most recent case, popular comedian Eric Omondi was arrested after trying to storm into parliament to protest against the high cost of living. While some may view this as a dramatic gesture, it is essential to remember that even plays have a theme. Despite the fact that demonstrations can be an effective way of raising awareness, they are not always the best solution. They can quickly turn violent, causing injuries and property damage, and may not always result in meaningful policy changes. As such, it is crucial to consider other avenues for effecting change that may be more sustainable and productive in the long run.

So, what can we do in the face of these hard-hitting economic times? We may not have all the answers, but we can find strength in each other. By sharing our stories, we can support one another and find hope in the knowledge that we’re not alone. And by advocating for change, whether through peaceful protests or other means, we can make our voices heard and demand a better future for ourselves and future generations. Let’s stay strong and keep fighting, knowing that we’re in this together.

Until Next Time

Fabian ✌✌✌