Le Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS), in the framework of the WYDE Political Parties project, led by the European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP) and funded by the European Union, is launching a national Pre-Election Survey on Youth Political Priorities and Expectations in Kenya.

As Kenya approaches the 2027 general elections, understanding the perspectives, expectations and priorities of young people has become increasingly important for the future of the country’s democratic development. With a significant majority of the population under the age of 35, youth represent a central force for political participation, economic development and social change. However, young people continue to face structural barriers to meaningful political participation and representation.

Despite constitutional provisions and efforts to promote youth representation, many young people remain excluded from decision-making processes, political leadership and policy development. At the same time, declining voter registration and turnout among young voters in recent elections reflects growing political disillusionment and a perception that political processes do not adequately reflect the interests and realities of younger generations.

Economic challenges further compound this situation. High unemployment, underemployment and limited access to economic opportunities continue to shape youth perceptions of political systems and governance. In addition, the high financial cost of running for political office remains one of the main barriers preventing young leaders from entering formal politics, reinforcing structural inequalities in political representation.

Against this backdrop, the survey aims to generate data-driven insights into the political and economic priorities, perceptions and expectations of Kenyan youth aged 18 to 35 ahead of the 2027 elections. The study will explore key issues influencing youth political participation, voting behaviour, political motivation and leadership ambitions, as well as the impact of economic realities on political engagement.

The research will be conducted using a mixed-methods approach, including quantitative surveys, focus group discussions and key informant interviews across multiple counties in Kenya, ensuring representation across urban and rural areas, gender groups and socio-economic backgrounds. The study will also analyse differences in political attitudes among various youth segments, including students, employed and unemployed youth, and rural and urban populations.

The findings of the survey will provide evidence-based recommendations to support political actors, civil society organisations and civic education initiatives in developing more youth-centred political engagement strategies. The results will also contribute to public debates, policy discussions and future activities under the WYDE Political Parties project, helping to strengthen youth participation and representation in democratic processes.

Through initiatives such as this study, the WYDE Political Parties project continues to support more inclusive political systems by promoting youth engagement, strengthening democratic participation and fostering dialogue between political actors and young citizens.

The survey represents an important step towards ensuring that the voices, priorities and aspirations of young people are better reflected in political agendas and democratic processes in Kenya.