Log into your member account to listen to this article. Not a member? Join the herd.

The recent anti-corruption Integrity walk in Kenya served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for integrity and accountability, particularly in light of Chapter 6 of the Kenyan Constitution, which emphasises ethical leadership. This event brought together citizens from various backgrounds, united by a common goal: to challenge the pervasive corruption that has long plagued the nation. Recent scandals, such as the Adani JKIA scandal and the controversial SHIF health fund, have intensified public outrage and highlighted the urgent need for reform.

A section of Kenyans join the Integrity Walk to express their messages through their placards.

The Generation Z protests which ignited a renewed sense of political awareness among young Kenyans were not merely reactions to specific policies but rather a broader condemnation of systemic corruption and mismanagement that have stifled progress. Young activists have effectively utilized social media to rally support and share their grievances, demanding accountability from leaders who have long been insulated from public scrutiny.

Gen Zs join the Integrity Walk 2024 third edition and proudly hold the Kenyan flag high, symbolizing their unwavering struggle for a better, more just Kenya.

While the anti-corruption walk showcased significant public engagement and a desire for change, participants acknowledged that much work remains. The recent scandals serve as stark reminders that despite the progress made, corruption is deeply entrenched in Kenya’s political fabric. Many protesters expressed hope that the momentum generated by Gen Z’s activism could lead to meaningful reforms, yet they also recognized the challenges ahead in dismantling established networks of impunity.
As participants marched through the streets, their chants echoed a collective determination to reclaim their nation from corrupt practices. The energy from the youth-led protests has instilled a sense of hope that this fight against corruption is not just a fleeting moment but rather a long walk toward freedom and integrity. The commitment to uphold ethical standards as outlined in Chapter 6 of the Constitution remains crucial, and with continued activism and civic engagement, there is optimism that Kenya can move towards a more transparent and accountable governance system.

A group of eager participants get a warm-up session before the start of the integrity walk 2024 edition.
A participant of the Integrity Walk’s third edition snaps a quick photo to commemorate the start of the march.
A mobile music ensemble, composed of piano players, accompany the marchers, providing a calming soundtrack to their journey.
A participant at the Integrity Walk made a delivers message to government gatekeepers through her placard.
The integrity walk was made safe by the watchful eyes of a traffic police officer, who directed traffic and protected pedestrians.
A participant takes water, as he paused to capture a moment during the Integrity Walk.
Busia Senator Hon. Okiya Omtata leads the integrity walk, waving the integrity flag high, alongside other participants.
A participant in the integrity walk collects a bottle of water at one of the strategically placed water stations along the route.
Participants in the integrity walk encountered a stark symbol of corruption: a gaping manhole along Haile Selassie Street, and they responded by placing a placard in front of it.
A participant of the integrity walk, dances to the rhythm of the music about a more transparent and accountable government.
A solitary placard with a powerful message, amidst the cheerful participants and the lively piano music displayed during the march.
Uhuru Highway was transformed into a stage for a vibrant display of civic engagement as countless integrity walk participants, marched down the road.
Willie Oeba, a spoken word artist takes the stage for a powerful recitation of a civic engagement poem urging all present to keep the flame of integrity alive for a brighter future for Kenya.
A bodaboda rider, seemingly inspired by the energy of the Integrity Walk, breaks into a dance on the roadside as the procession passes by.
A police officer joins the integrity march, as part of the security presence, with a bold statement about power presented to him on a placard.
A mobile ice cream vendor was a welcome sight for participants of the Integrity Walk 2024, offering a refreshing treat after the event.