Author:

Mercy Chebet Kiplagat, Chebii Kiprono, Kemboi Cherop, Okaye Okedi Francis
Department of History and Geography
The Catholic University of Eastern Africa.
P.O Box 62157 (00200)
Nairobi-Kenya
Email: mercychebet14@gmail.com

Department of Humanities and
Social Science Education
Alupe University
P.O Box 845 (50400)
Busia-Kenya
Email: chebiizk@gmail.com

Department of Humanities
University of Eldoret
P.O. Box 1125-30100,
Eldoret
Email: ckcherop@gmail.com

Department of Language Literature
& Lingustics
Alupe University
P.O Box 845 (50400)
Busia-Kenya
Email: okakedi@gmail.com

Abstract::Abstract:This study examines Kenya’s protest movements from colonial resistance to digital activism,
exploring how socio-political shifts and technological advancements have influenced collective action.
Beginning with the 1905 Nandi Resistance led by Koitalel Arap Samoei, followed by early anti-colonial
mobilization by the Maasai, Kikuyu, and other communities in colonial Kenya. The research highlights
pivotal moments opposing land confiscations and colonial policies regarded as descriminative. The
Kikuyu Central Association in the 1920s and the Mau Mau Rebellion in the 1950s marked critical stages,
culminating in independence in 1963. Employing historical document analysis and content analysis, the
study draws insights from archival sources, historical records, and media portrayals to map changing
protest strategies. From post-colonial authoritarianism under Jomo Kenyatta and Daniel Arap Moi to the
1990s multi-party democracy movement, Kenya’s protest landscape reflects shifting governance and
societal demands. The study further addresses the rise of digital activism by Generation Z in 2024, where
platforms like TikTok, X (Twitter), and Facebook facilitate decentralized mobilization on economic and
social justice issues. Protests against the 2023 and 2024 Finance Bills underscore ongoing public
dissatisfaction with governance, economic disparities, and concerns over parliamentary representation.
The study concludes that, despite the 2010 Constitution’s reforms, challenges like electoral fraud,
corruption, and inequality persist, driving continued activism. This research highlights the resilience of
Kenyan society and the evolving impact of digital tools, historical legacies, and political changes in
shaping the nation’s pursuit of justice and effective governance

Key Words::Colonial Resistance; Mau Mau Rebellion; Multi-Party Democracy; Generation Z Activism etc.