TikTok
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Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made his debut on TikTok with a two-hour live session that attracted over 10,000 viewers.
This foray into the platform underscores a growing trend among Kenyan politicians, who are increasingly looking to connect with the youth through digital channels. TikTok has emerged as a hub for digital activism in the country. The shift of TikTok into a vital political engagement tool was exemplified in 2024 when Generation Z utilized the platform to voice protests and challenge the status quo.
With its concise, engaging video format and interactive features, TikTok has become popular among young Kenyans as they share personal narratives related to economic struggles and systemic injustices. According to the Reuters Institute’s Digital News Report 2024, the rising significance of TikTok in Kenya is reflected in the finding that over one-third of Kenyans now rely on the platform for news.
This statistic aligns with a global trend wherein 23 per cent of individuals aged 18 to 24 turn to TikTok for information, confirming its strong appeal among younger demographics. Governance expert and political analyst Javas Bigambo has highlighted the imperative for Kenyan leaders to adopt digital tools effectively.
He states, “The use of technology, particularly social media, is not tethered to a specific age group but tied to the transformative nature of the world we live in. Leaders who fail to adapt risk becoming obsolete in their engagement strategies.”
Bigambo further notes that politicians who have successfully navigated emerging media often achieve greater political success. He advocates for an integrated approach to technology in government functions, emphasizing substantial budget allocations for AI training and implementation within ministries to enhance service delivery, judiciary processes, and legislative functions.
Several Kenyan politicians have already embraced TikTok to engage with their constituents. Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, known as Jalang'o, has been a leading advocate for the platform, highlighting its role in empowering the youth and opposing any potential government ban. With over 530,000 followers and 5.3 million likes, Jalang'o utilizes TikTok to showcase his lifestyle and discuss constituency-related issues.
Hassan Joho, the Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary, is among the first political figures to adopt TikTok, amassing over 608,000 followers and 2.8 million likes by sharing insights about his luxurious lifestyle and engaging with Bongo music. Meanwhile, Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has gained popularity through dynamic and humorous content, boasting 743,000 followers and 12.4 million likes.
Prominent figures like Millicent Omanga, known as the “Dancing Queen of TikTok,” share entertaining dance videos, while nominated senator Karen Nyamu actively participates in TikTok trends to connect with younger audiences. Despite facing challenges from critics, Nyamu remains a staunch supporter of the platform and its regulations.