International relations have become increasingly important in our globalised world, affecting the daily lives of millennials and Gen Zs in ways that were unimaginable just a few decades ago. From trade to security, the decisions made by governments and multinational organisations have the potential to impact economies, societies, and individuals across the globe.

In today’s post, we will explore the impact of international relations on younger generations and the potential consequences of different approaches to global issues.

Specifically, we will take a closer look at Kenya’s role in the international community, the issues it has faced in international relations, and how these affect the lives of millennials and Gen Zs in the country. From trade to security, join me as I dive into the complex and dynamic world of international relations and its impact on the future of Kenya’s young and diverse population.

One area of international relations that significantly impacts Kenya and the lives of millennials and Gen Zs is trade. Kenya is a country that heavily relies on exports, and as such, its trade policies play a vital role in the country’s economic growth. In 2019, Kenya signed the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), a trade agreement that seeks to create a single market for goods and services in Africa. This agreement allows Kenya to boost its exports and economic growth. However, it also poses a challenge as Kenya will have to compete with other African countries in the market. Implementing the AfCFTA will directly impact the livelihoods of millennials and Gen Zs who are either involved in the export business or are looking to start businesses that export goods and services.

Kenya has benefited from increased trade and investment, which has created jobs and driven economic growth. As a matter of fact, Kenya has been one of the go-to countries for multinational companies over the years. Our nation has been one of the fastest-growing regions, and this business sees growth opportunities.   We have witnessed tech giants such as Google and Microsoft battle for talent from this nation. In 2020, Microsoft announced plans to establish an Africa Development Center in Nairobi, which will serve as a hub for software engineers working on various Microsoft products and services. This investment is expected to create job opportunities and contribute to the growth of the local technology ecosystem. Other companies, such as General Electric and Coca-Cola, have been in the countries for over 15 years and continue expanding their businesses nationwide. Ultimately, these companies create jobs and business opportunities for many talented young people who can help drive the nation’s economy forward. 

However, there are also concerns that global trade can lead to exploitation and inequality, particularly for developing countries. For example, I have seen how farmers in Kenya struggle to compete with subsidised agricultural imports from developed countries. The result is decreased income and job loss, which has had a long-term impact on the economic stability of communities. Many people in Kenya rely on farming as a primary source of income, and introducing cheaper products from outside the nation and GMOs may play a significant role in killing this sector. The impact of the importation of subsidised products such as maize and sugar is not limited to the farmers alone. It also affects other agricultural value chain stakeholders, such as suppliers of inputs, transporters, and processors. When farmers cannot produce enough crops due to competition from cheap imports, they also reduce their demand for inputs such as fertiliser and seed. This, in turn, affects input suppliers and other stakeholders in the value chain.

The impact of the importation of subsidised products is not just economic; it also has social and political implications. The decline in local production and farmers’ income loss can lead to increased poverty and food insecurity. This issue can also lead to social unrest and political instability. Additionally, the dependence on imports for staple foods such as maize and sugar makes the country vulnerable to price fluctuations and supply chain disruptions in exporting countries.

A more recent case of the impact of international trade on local businesses was witnessed with the introduction of China Square Mall, a retail shop for cheap household items. The shop was brought to Kenyan attention for offering high-quality products at a lower price than small traders in famous markets such as Gikomba and Nyamakima.   We witness the hype grow in various social media platforms, resulting in thousands of Kenyans rushing to the once deserted and quiet Unicity Mall along the busy Thika Super Highway owned by Kenyatta University. As a result, small traders from the aforementioned market complained that the company was taking their businesses, forcing the involvement of the Minister of Trade, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Deputy President. We even witnessed these traders go to the streets in protest, leading to the mall’s closure. However, China Square reopened yesterday, and the traffic was even higher, “thanks to the free government advertisement.”  The issue, however, highlighted the impact of international relations on the nation, as it almost caused conflict with China, a Kenya Trade partner to our country.

Another area of international relations that has an impact on Kenya and its young people is security. Kenya has faced numerous security challenges recently, including terrorist attacks by al-Shabaab, piracy, and border disputes with neighbouring countries. These security challenges have directly impacted the daily lives of millennials and Gen Zs in Kenya. For example, the increase in terrorist attacks has led to heightened security measures in public places, such as shopping malls, universities, and public transportation. This challenge has resulted in longer waiting times and inconvenience for young people who use these services.

In conclusion, international relations significantly impact millennials and Gen Zs in Kenya. Trade policies, security, and other global issues directly impact the daily lives of young people in the country. As such, governments and multinational organisations need to consider the needs and interests of young people in their decision-making processes.

Implementing policies that promote sustainable economic growth, security, education, and social well-being will ensure that Kenya’s millennials and Gen Zs have a brighter future. It is also crucial for young people to be actively involved in the decision-making process and to have a voice in shaping their future. As the world continues to become more interconnected, it is essential to prioritise the needs of young people in international relations and work towards a better future for all.

Until Next Time

Fabian ✌✌✌