U.S. Pastor and former NFL star calls on Government to mend ties with Gen Z over 2024 protest response

Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi 
Wednesday, May 28, 2025

Renowned American motivational speaker and former National Football League (NFL) player, Pastor Rickey Allen Bolden, has encouraged the government to apologise to young Kenyans, particularly Generation Z (Gen Z), over how they were handled during the 2024 Finance Bill protests.

Speaking during the 22nd National Prayer Breakfast held at Safari Park Hotel under the theme “Rise and Rebuild,” Bolden addressed senior government officials, including President Dr. William Ruto and Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki. 

He urged national leaders to mend their relationship with the youth and consider involving them more in national decision-making.

Pastor Bolden expressed concern that while young people respect their leaders and parents, they often feel neglected and misunderstood. He emphasized the need for leaders to acknowledge the role of Gen Z in shaping the country’s future.

“They are seeking love, respect, and inclusion. They want to feel that their voices matter,” he said. His remarks were met with emotional reactions from the audience.

He shared personal stories about how he treats his grown children — a doctor, a financial advisor, and a therapist — as adults and consults them on major life decisions. 

He encouraged leaders to do the same by respecting young people as mature contributors to society.

Reflecting on the recent youth-led protests, Bolden suggested that it would be powerful for the government to acknowledge any distress caused by actions such as arrests and temporary internet shutdowns.

“It would mean a lot if our leaders could stand and say: ‘We are sorry for how we responded. We recognize your concerns, and we want to work together moving forward,’” he said, drawing applause from the congregation.

Bolden also recalled a defining moment early in his career, when his NFL coach, Marty Schottenheimer, treated him as an adult and an equal. He used the story to illustrate how Gen Z is similarly seeking recognition as responsible and capable adults.

“They’re going to college, building careers, starting families — they are no longer children. They deserve to be treated with dignity,” he noted.

In response, Deputy President Kindiki acknowledged Bolden’s message, agreeing that older generations should reflect on their actions and offer young people more respect and space. 

He emphasized the importance of mutual understanding across generations.

“We must foster intergenerational relationships. While we listen to our youth and own up to past mistakes, we also encourage them to respect authority and value the wisdom that comes with age,” said Prof. Kindiki.

He noted that each generation brings something valuable to the table, and building bridges across age groups is key to a peaceful and prosperous society.

President Ruto, who had listened quietly throughout, gave a brief but heartfelt response. 

“To our children, if there was any misstep, we apologise,” he said.

Pastor Bolden’s message comes at a time when young Kenyans, particularly Gen Z, are becoming more active in civic matters and national discussions, often using digital platforms to express their views.