Some months ago, Youth for Sustainable Energy took the lead in mobilizing young voices to contribute to the initial draft of Kenya’s National Energy Policy. Through a nationwide call for input, we provided a platform for youth to share their perspectives and priorities. These contributions were formally presented at the stakeholder review meeting in Machakos, organized by the Power Up Campaign in collaboration with the Kenya Renewable Energy Association and supported by GIZ, and subsequently submitted to the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum for consideration.
The validation of the draft National Energy Policy 2025–2034 marks a strategic step toward a sustainable and inclusive energy future as well as a historic moment for youth inclusion in national decision-making. For those of us who participated in the policy review process, it is gratifying to see our contributions reflected in the final document.
The policy outlines a bold framework for a technologically advanced, climate-resilient energy sector. But beyond its infrastructure and investment focus, it now acknowledges and prioritizes the role of youth in driving this transformation. This is a significant shift from earlier drafts, where youth engagement and capacity building received limited attention.
One of the key areas we championed was the need to realign academic programs with the evolving energy landscape. The final draft now addresses this, recognizing the disconnect between education and market demands. It calls for stronger collaboration between training institutions, research centers, and industry players to ensure students and educators are kept up to date with emerging technologies and energy policies. This creates a pathway for preparing a future-ready workforce.
Our advocacy for investment in youth-led ideas and innovations was not in vain. The policy includes provisions for supporting research and development, establishing innovation hubs, and providing capacity-building opportunities for young people. This includes dedicated programs to skill, upskill, and reskill youth—an essential response to the fast-changing energy job market.
The most significant win is the shift from mere recognition to a structured inclusion. The policy now outlines clear strategies for developing human resource capacity across the energy sector, with a focus on youth. It also supports the development of locally produced energy technologies that nurture young entrepreneurs working on clean energy solutions. This means young professionals can now expect a more supportive environment to grow, contribute, and lead in the energy transition.
Moving forward, this policy is a testament to what inclusive policy-making can achieve. It proves that when young people are given the opportunity to participate meaningfully, the outcome is more representative, responsive, and forward-looking.
Now, the focus shifts to implementation. We must continue advocating for these commitments to be realized on the ground through mentorship programs, inclusive internships, accessible funding, and sustained youth engagement in energy projects.
The participation of young people in the review process has yielded results. The final draft policy reflects our ideas, needs, and aspirations. It’s a win for the youth—and a promising step for Kenya’s clean energy future.
By Cynthia Ongaro and Ronny Musenye