Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012, represents a unique force in Africa’s political landscape. This generation, having grown up in an era of rapid technological advances and digital connectivity, wields unprecedented influence through social media and other online platforms.
However, their approach to activism and political engagement has raised concerns about its effectiveness and sustainability. To fully understand the current dynamics, it is crucial to examine both the historical context of African politics and the particularities of Generation Z’s involvement.
Political instability and crisis
Uganda, a country with a complex and often turbulent history, provides a compelling case study for these issues.
In the late 19th century, the Western powers’ scramble for control over Africa led to significant upheavals in Uganda.
The 1888-89 political-religious wars, largely driven by colonial ambitions, were not merely local conflicts but part of a broader European struggle for dominance. The installation of Kabaka Daudi Cwa II in 1897 and the signing of the 1900 Buganda Agreement were pivotal moments.
These events reshaped Uganda’s political and land ownership structures, sowing seeds of conflict that persist today.
The Bataka Crisis, the Nyangire Rebellion, and the Lamogi Resistance were further reflections of Uganda’s struggle for autonomy against both colonial and internal oppression.
These rebellions underscored the deep desire for self-determination and the challenges posed by external and internal forces.
The impact of colonial rule and subsequent global conflicts continued to shape Uganda’s political landscape. Uganda’s involvement in World War I and II, described by historian Dr. Kihura Nkuba as European tribal wars, illustrates how global conflicts often had local repercussions.
The legacy of these conflicts contributed to the political instability that Uganda experienced in the post-colonial era. By 1962, Uganda gained independence, but the transition was fraught with difficulties.
The 1966 Kabaka Crisis, marked by a violent confrontation between the army and the palace, was a harbinger of the instability that would follow.
The post-independence period in Uganda was marked by further turmoil, including Idi Amin’s 1971 military coup and the subsequent political instability.
The 1980 elections, marred by allegations of rigging, led to a period of resistance and conflict. Factions, including the Uganda People’s Congress and the National Resistance Army led by Yoweri Museveni, played crucial roles shaping Uganda’s political trajectory.
The Gen Z approach
Generation Z in Uganda is acutely aware of this historical backdrop. This awareness has informed their activism, which largely takes the form of peaceful protests and digital campaigns.
Unlike previous generations that engaged in armed struggle, today’s youth leverage technology to challenge corruption, inequality, and repression. They use social media platforms to mobilize support, share information, and criticize the government.
However, despite their innovative approaches, Generation Z’s activism in Uganda is not without its flaws. One significant issue is the lack of coherent political ideology among many activists.
The opposition, often driven by social media trends rather than clear policies, sometimes resorts to cyberbullying and personal attacks.
For example, opposition figures have targeted musicians and celebrities for not supporting their causes, leading to a toxic political environment that detracts from substantive debate.
Confronting power structures
This phenomenon of digital activism without solid grounding mirrors a broader trend across Africa.
In many countries, Generation Z is challenging entrenched political systems through protests and online campaigns. Yet, these efforts often struggle against external pressures and historical legacies.
For instance, military coups in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, as well as uprisings in Sudan and Guinea, highlight the persistent instability and the challenges faced by young activists.
Moreover, Western influence has played a significant role in shaping Africa’s political landscape. Historical events, such as the 1963 coup in Togo and the Biafran Civil War, illustrate how external powers have supported dictators and undermined democratic processes to protect their interests.
Recent events, including military takeovers in Gabon and Niger, further demonstrate the complex interplay between local activism and global politics.
In Uganda, President Yoweri Museveni’s long tenure, which began in 1986, underscores the difficulties faced by Generation Z activists.
Despite their efforts, the entrenched power structures and the regime’s repressive tactics present significant obstacles. The regime’s crackdown on dissent and manipulation of political processes have stifled the youth’s attempts at reform.
The challenges faced by Gen Z in Uganda and across Africa are compounded by a decline in moral and political engagement. Activists seem to lack an understanding of historical context and political theory, which undermines their effectiveness.
Without a strong ideological foundation and a commitment to informed discourse, their activism risks becoming reactive rather than transformative
Conclusion
In conclusion, Generation Z’s role in African politics represents both an opportunity and a challenge.
Their ability to mobilize through digital platforms and engage in peaceful protests reflects a significant shift from past approaches to activism. However, the lack of a coherent ideology, historical ignorance, and the prevalence of cyberbullying undermine their efforts.
If this generation does not address these shortcomings and learn from historical experiences, they risk becoming a force that, rather than fostering democratic change, contributes to further instability and authoritarianism.
Africa’s future depends on whether Gen Z can bridge these gaps and build a more informed, cohesive, and effective political activism.
By Mugenyi Moses