Missional insights for engaging Generation Z: A Kenyan perspective

Abstract

shift from traditional, attractional models to authentic, digitally-first, and intergenerational approaches. Gen Z is characterised as the first post-Christian, techno-savvy generation, often marked by anxiety, yet possessing a deep hunger for
authenticity, justice, and spiritual experience. Considering this, the article seeks to present some missional insights on Generation Z (youths, hereafter Gen Z) whose protests against Church-State relations climaxed on 25th June 2024, when they stormed Kenya’s Parliament and later expressed anger toward churches perceived as indifferent to national hardships. In Gen Z’s protests against the “state of the nation”, which refers to the perceived over-taxation, overpromising, cynical church-state relations, and the discredited Finance Bill 2024, among other concerns, theo-social vulnerabilities were exposed. In appreciating the religio-communal-interdependent nature of the African context, how can theo-missional concerns be effectively addressed considering the Gen Z revolt; and is Fred Davis’ (1989) theoretical model of the growing level of techno-developmental acceptance the ideal tool in counteracting these vulnerabilities? Methodologically, it is quantitative research that utilises social media tools to understand Gen Zs who have been dubbed as ‘digital natives’ in some quarters. An extensive review of the relevant literature has also been done.