A New Era for Maa Youth: Leadership, Unity, and the Rise of Gen Z in Kenyan Politics

In the heart of Kenya’s dynamic and diverse social fabric, a powerful movement is taking shape led by the youth of the Maa community. This generational awakening was unmistakably felt at the University of Nairobi, where the Maa Students Association hosted an impactful dialogue with Kajiado County Governor, H.E. Joseph ole Lenku.

This wasn’t just another campus event, it was a defining moment of youth empowerment, political consciousness, and community-led transformation. It marked the rise of a new generation, bold, visionary, and united. A generation that no longer watches from the sidelines but steps forward to lead with integrity and purpose.

A Turning Point: Youth Engagement with County Leadership

Spearheaded by Linus Kaikai, Editorial Director at Royal Media Services and Patron of the association, the event drew an energetic mix of students, youth leaders, professionals, and county officials. The atmosphere was charged with a shared urgency to reshape the future of the Maa people.

Key Leaders Who Answered the Call:

  • Mr. Loyer ole Keiwua, Director of ICT, Kajiado County, championing youth-driven digital transformation and skills development.
  • Hon. Chris Tilal, HR Manager, Kenya Railways, advocating for stronger internship and mentorship pipelines in government institutions.
  • Mr. Parseina, Kajiado County Minister for Lands, highlighting the importance of youth land rights and economic equity.
  • Mr. Elian Martinez, Chair of the Kajiado County Youth Alliance, uplifting grassroots voices and local development efforts.

These leaders brought more than words, they offered genuine collaboration, signaling a long-overdue shift toward inclusive, youth-focused governance.

Speaking Up: The Real Issues Facing Maa Youth

For the first time in years, students openly discussed the deep-rooted issues that have held them back: education disparities, youth unemployment, lack of political representation, mental health stigma, and tribal divisions.

This wasn’t just a venting session, it was a demand for real, systemic change.

The youth presented a transformative agenda calling for:

  • Inclusive student empowerment programs at county and national levels
  • Leadership training grounded in Maa culture and identity
  • Civic education with direct youth input in policy-making
  • Mental health access and entrepreneurship support

Meet Kevin ole Milia: A New Face of Student Leadership

Leading the charge is Kevin ole Milia, the newly elected President of the Kenya Maa Students Association (KMSA). Calm yet impactful, Kevin represents a new kind of leader, vision-driven, inclusive, and grounded in service.

Despite facing coordinated attempts to discredit his leadership, Kevin has risen above distractions. His presentation to Governor Lenku was not just inspiring, it was strategic. His policy framework includes:

  • County-funded innovation hubs across Maa regions
  • Mental health programs in schools and colleges
  • Civic education tied to county development plans
  • Transparent, non-partisan student governance

In Kevin’s own words: “KMSA is not just a student body, it’s the heartbeat of a generation rewriting our story.”

Rebuilding KMSA: From Dormancy to Dominance

Years of poor leadership and tribal politics had weakened KMSA. But that era is ending.

Under Kevin’s leadership and with guidance from mentors like Linus Kaikai, the organization is undergoing a total reboot. The vision: to build a powerful, resilient institution that champions Maa youth in academia, politics, and culture.

This is more than rebranding. It’s a full transformation into a platform that will shape the next generation of national leaders.

Governor Lenku: A Call for Unity Beyond Tribal Lines

Governor Joseph ole Lenku delivered one of the most compelling messages of the day, urging the youth to reject clan-based politics and focus on shared issues and common goals.

“We must unite not by clan, but by cause. Let’s raise leaders who go beyond borders and tribes,” he said.

H.E Joseph Ole Lenku addressing the Students. Image Courtesy/

He pledged his full support to youth-led initiatives and emphasized that leadership should be earned through capability and vision, not tribal allegiance.

A Maa Political Party: From Dream to Strategy

Among the most powerful discussions was the idea of forming a Maa political party, a dream that has long lingered but now finds solid ground among Gen Z.

This movement is not about tribalism. It’s about:

  • Uniting Maa counties like Kajiado, Narok, Samburu, and Laikipia
  • Forming issue-based alliances instead of ethnic blocs
  • Protecting Maa cultural, economic, and political interests
  • Negotiating from a position of strength in national politics

The goal: stop waiting for a seat at the table, build your own.

Linus Kaikai: Mentorship with Vision

Patron Linus Kaikai brought more than media credibility, he brought mentorship rooted in wisdom and strategy. He urged students to pair cultural grounding with media savvy and policy literacy.

“Prepare for power. Learn how systems work. Study policy. Be deliberate,” he advised.

His commitment to walk alongside the youth as a mentor signals a sustainable mentorship model rooted in real impact.

Gen Z: The New Power Players in Kenyan Politics

Today’s Gen Z isn’t just the future, they are the present. From digital activism to mental health advocacy, from climate justice to policy lobbying, Gen Z is leading movements that matter.

And Maa youth are stepping up. With leaders like Kevin ole Milia, and supporters like Governor Lenku and Linus Kaikai, a new chapter in Kenyan politics is being written, by students, for a better Kenya.

Student during the meeting. Image Courtesy

The Road Ahead: From Awareness to Action

This moment wasn’t a conclusion, it was a beginning. KMSA is being reborn. Maa youth are finding their voice and it’s louder, clearer, and more united than ever.

To every Maa-speaking youth, student, elder, and citizen: this is your time.

Let’s rise together not just as voters, but as governors, senators, and presidents. The age of waiting is over. The age of leading has begun.

By Brian Liaram( Intern, Paran Fm)

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