How it unfolded
In the lead-up to the 2027 General Election in Kenya, a significant movement has emerged aimed at increasing voter registration among the youth. The #TukoKadi initiative, which translates to “We are registered,” has gained traction particularly among Generation Z, who have been historically underrepresented in the electoral process. This initiative was sparked by the disappointing voter turnout in the 2022 General Election, which recorded the lowest levels in over a decade.
On March 17, 2026, the initiative saw a remarkable achievement with 641 new voters registered in a single day in Kasarani, Nairobi. This event marked a pivotal moment for the movement, demonstrating the potential for mobilizing young voters. Allans Ademba, a key figure in the initiative, expressed optimism about the momentum, stating, “Leo tumefika 641, 100k is achievable across the country,” highlighting the ambitious goal of reaching 100,000 new registrations nationwide.
The #TukoKadi movement originated on TikTok, where users began sharing their voter registration statuses, creating a viral trend that resonated with many young Kenyans. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has set a target to register 6.3 million new voters before the upcoming elections, with the broader aim of registering 15 million young voters by August 2027. This ambitious goal reflects a growing recognition of the importance of youth participation in shaping the country’s political landscape.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the initiative, challenges remain. Youth dissatisfaction and apathy have been identified as significant barriers to mobilizing young voters. Hanifa Farsafi, another advocate for the cause, noted, “Most of the unregistered Gen Zs are actually in universities. We should do a massive trend in universities, Mahn,” emphasizing the need for targeted outreach to engage this demographic effectively.
The #TukoKadi initiative is not just a response to past electoral challenges; it represents a broader trend of increasing political engagement among Gen Z in Kenya. As young people become more aware of their power to influence change, movements like #TukoKadi are crucial in fostering a sense of civic responsibility and participation.
As the initiative continues to gain momentum, Allans Ademba has plans to expand the #TukoKadi campaign to various regions across the country. This expansion is vital for reaching more young voters and ensuring that their voices are heard in the upcoming elections. The success of this initiative could significantly alter the political landscape in Kenya, particularly if the target of 15 million new voters is achieved.
In summary, the #TukoKadi initiative is a promising development in the realm of voter registration in Kenya. With a focus on engaging the youth and addressing previous challenges in voter turnout, it has the potential to mobilize a new generation of voters. As the election date approaches, the effectiveness of this initiative will be closely watched, as it could pave the way for a more inclusive and representative electoral process in the country.
