A new wave of youth-led protests is sweeping across Africa, as members of Generation Z in countries like Morocco and Madagascar demand better governance, accountability, and improved living conditions.
The movement, driven largely through social media platforms such as TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, follows similar protests in Kenya and Nepal. It is led by young people known for their digital skills, creativity, and political awareness.
The trend gained global attention after young Kenyans forced their government to withdraw a controversial finance bill through massive online and street protests. The demonstrations began as angry TikTok posts about high taxes and later turned into nationwide protests that brought Nairobi to a halt.
“They streamed their protests live, showing police firing tear gas as they demanded fair treatment,” a witness said.
Inspired by this, young protesters in Madagascar and Morocco have also taken to the streets. In Madagascar, President Andry Rajoelina dissolved his government in late September after days of deadly demonstrations over power and water shortages. The United Nations reported that at least 22 people were killed and more than 100 injured during the unrest.
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In Morocco, hundreds of young people under the banner of a grassroots group called GenZ 212 protested across at least 11 cities, including Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, and Agadir. They demanded an end to corruption and better public services. The protests, organized mainly through TikTok, Instagram, and the gaming app Discord, have been described as the largest anti-government demonstrations in the country in years.
Speaking about the growing Gen Z movements, former Nigerian Ambassador to Mexico, Ogbole Amedu-Ode, urged African governments to focus on job creation and youth empowerment.
“If a conducive environment is created for young people to prosper economically, there will be no need for protests,” “Governments must provide meaningful employment and cater to the legitimate ambitions of the youth,”vhe said.
Similarly, former Nigerian Consul to Cameroon, Rasheed Akinkuolie, blamed the unrest on unemployment and poor economic policies.
“An idle hand is the devil’s workshop,” “African governments must think outside the box, invest in education, and adopt people-friendly policies. The harsh IMF-style policies are not working,” he said.
He also called for more investment in agriculture and local industries.
“Africa must add value to its cash crops and minerals before exporting them,” Akinkuolie advised.
As Gen Z activists continue to use digital tools to demand change, analysts say the continent may be witnessing a new era of youth-driven political awakening.