Youth Take Over Nairobi in Bold “One Tribe, One Nation” March. A New Political Wave for 2027?

On Sunday, July 20, Nairobi’s busy Central Business District (CBD) was filled with energy as a group of young people marched through the streets. Dressed mostly in camouflage clothing, the youth chanted “One Tribe, One Nation” as they moved across the city. 

The movement, called One Tribe, One Nation, has been gaining attention among Kenya’s younger generation. This peaceful protest was one way for the youth to show their support for unity in the country, regardless of ethnic background. 

Leading the group was Francis Awino, the President of Bunge la Mwananchi. He has become a familiar name among those pushing for youth leadership and political change. This march was meant to promote their growing campaign and message. 

What made this march even more interesting was the group’s announcement that they will present candidates in the 2027 general elections. This includes a plan to field someone for the presidential seat. Although it’s not yet clear if Awino will be the one running, many expect him to play a major role. 

Videos shared online showed the youth not only marching but also riding motorbikes and matatus as they passed through Nairobi. Their message was loud, bold, and clear, they want a united Kenya with no tribal divisions. 

The slogan “One Tribe, One Nation” has already appeared during other protests, especially among young Kenyans. The message focuses on national unity and ending tribal politics, which have divided the country for decades. 

Interestingly, the group says they are leaderless. While Awino is their public face, they claim not to have officially chosen a presidential flagbearer. This shows that the movement is more about shared goals than individual fame. 

Some young people have been showing strong support for first-time political candidates. Names like former Chief Justice David Maraga and Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah keep coming up in discussions. Both men have earned a lot of respect, especially on social media. 

At the same time, other new leaders are also gaining attention. For example, Peter Salasya, a first-time Member of Parliament, has declared his interest in running for president in 2027. 

But the youth-led movement is not the only group preparing for 2027. The United Opposition is also planning a big challenge against President William Ruto.  

This group includes big names such as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka of the Wiper party, Martha Karua of the People’s Liberation Party, Eugene Wamalwa of the Democratic Action Party, and former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i. 

The United Opposition has said that they will unite behind one candidate by 2027. They believe that by standing together, they have a better chance to defeat President Ruto in the next elections. 

The youth movement has not yet announced any official plans to join the United Opposition or work with any other party. They seem to be creating their own path, fueled by frustration, hope, and the desire for change. 

As Kenya moves closer to 2027, it’s clear that the country’s political landscape is shifting. The voices of the youth are growing louder, and their actions, like the march in Nairobi, are starting to shape the national conversation. 

Whether or not One Tribe, One Nation becomes a major force in politics, one thing is certain: young Kenyans are no longer just watching from the sidelines. They are now stepping up, marching forward, and demanding a better future.