Why do youths commit crime in Kenya?

The rise of young people committing crimes in Kenya is a multifaceted issue influenced by various socio-economic, cultural, and political factors. Understanding these factors requires an examination of the broader context in which young people in Kenya live. Here are some key factors contributing to this trend.

1. Unemployment and Poverty: High levels of unemployment and poverty disproportionately affect young people in Kenya. According to the World Bank, youth unemployment rates in Kenya are significantly higher than the national average. Many young people, unable to find gainful employment, may turn to crime as a means of survival or to attain material wealth.

2. Lack of Education and Skills Training: Limited access to quality education and vocational training opportunities exacerbates the problem. Without the necessary skills to secure formal employment, young people may feel marginalized and excluded from mainstream society, leading them to engage in criminal activities as an alternative source of income.

3. Urbanization and Rapid Population Growth: Kenya's urban areas have experienced rapid population growth in recent years, leading to overcrowding, inadequate housing, and strained public services. Urban youth, particularly those living in informal settlements (slums), face numerous challenges, including limited access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. The lack of infrastructure and basic services in these areas can contribute to social unrest and criminal behavior.

4. Gang Involvement and Peer Pressure: Young people may join criminal gangs for protection, a sense of belonging, or to gain status within their communities. Peer pressure and the desire for acceptance can drive vulnerable youth into a life of crime, as they seek validation and identity through affiliation with delinquent groups.

5. Drug Abuse and Substance Dependency: The prevalence of drug abuse, including substances like marijuana, heroin, and methamphetamine, among young people in Kenya is a growing concern. Substance abuse can impair judgment, increase impulsivity, and lower inhibitions, making individuals more susceptible to engaging in criminal behavior.

6. Corruption and Weak Law Enforcement: Corruption within the police force and judicial system undermines efforts to combat crime effectively. Instances of police brutality, bribery, and the selective enforcement of laws contribute to a culture of impunity, where criminals believe they can operate without fear of consequences. This erodes public trust in law enforcement institutions and perpetuates a cycle of crime and impunity.

7. Social Inequality and Marginalization: Socio-economic disparities and systemic inequalities marginalize certain segments of the population, particularly ethnic minorities and marginalized communities. Discrimination and lack of opportunities based on ethnicity, religion, or socio-economic status can foster feelings of resentment and alienation, driving some individuals towards criminality as a form of rebellion or protest against perceived injustices.

8. Family Dysfunction and Parental Neglect: Dysfunctional family environments, characterized by parental neglect, domestic violence, or substance abuse, can contribute to the delinquency of young people. Children growing up in unstable or abusive households may seek refuge in street life or criminal activities as a means of escaping their home environment or as a way to meet their basic needs.

Addressing the root causes of youth involvement in crime requires a comprehensive approach that addresses systemic issues such as poverty, unemployment, inequality, and lack of access to education and social services. Efforts to promote youth empowerment, provide skills training, create job opportunities, strengthen community policing initiatives, and enhance access to education and healthcare are essential components of any strategy aimed at reducing youth crime in Kenya. Additionally, addressing corruption within law enforcement and the judicial system is crucial for restoring public trust and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.