Teens have a right to demonstrate.

Teenagers have a legally protected right to demonstrate and to cause demonstrations in Kenya. Zoomers and Alphas are more vocal, articulate and tech savvy than their predecessors. Teenagers mobilize themselves to drum up support for causes they believe in like social justice, spirituality, political views and gender identity. They are informed, thanks to social media and a 24/7 news cycle, they are empowered by their smartphone and technology and they are privy to the shortcomings of past protests and want to see lasting change.

Under The Children’s Act of Kenya section 28. (1) Every child has the right, peaceably and unarmed, to assemble, demonstrate or present petitions to public authorities, and to freely participate in matters affecting children through lawfully established forums, associations, and assemblies at the national and county levels. (2) The right of a child to assemble, demonstrate, and to present petitions, shall be subject to the rights of others. (3) In addition to the rights guaranteed under subsections (1) and (2), every child shall have the right to express their views in all matters affecting them, and have those views heard and given due weight in accordance with the child’s age and maturity. (4) The right guaranteed under subsection (3) voluntarily by a child and without any undue influence, coercion, inducement or enticement by any person. 

In order to stay safe during a protest, go in groups with known friends and stay together at all times and have a plan should they be isolated. Have a common meeting place and have a safety plan should you need immediate evacuation.

Pack and dress wisely and comfortably for the weather for the day before heading out the door. It would be nice to carry some form of identification and some money, have your phone and avoid wearing expensive flashy jewelry that may attract petty thieves.

Law enforcement are always deployed where demonstrations are planned. Be respectful and polite to them. Do not stir up trouble, they will arrest you.

Counter-protesters can be present at the demonstrations. It is within their rights to. Ignore them, even if they resort to bullying and intimidation.

Should you miss prior engagements because you had to engage in a protest, like school or work, the responsible thing is to inform your school or employer. Failure to do so can still result in consequences.

Give way. Do not block human or vehicular traffic. Stick to delineated free spaces along your route. Interfering with another person’s rights or freedoms beats the logic of your own protest. 

Lastly, have your mobile on standby, fully charged and GPS on. You can use tracking apps should you lose your way. Find my friends is an app that can help your friends, parent or guardian find you should you get lost. 

All the best to the worthy cause you’re fighting for.