Mahatma Gandhi: A Legacy of Non-Violence That Still Inspires Change

As the world marks the International Day of Non-Violence today, Kenya joins nations worldwide in reflecting on the lasting impact of Mahatma Gandhi the man who proved that peace could be a powerful weapon against injustice.

Annually, on October 2, Gandhi’s birthday is celebrated and his philosophy of Satyagraha, a method of peaceful resistance that inspired global movements for freedom, dignity, and human rights observed.

Born in 1869, Gandhi led India’s independence struggle through non-violent civil disobedience. His time in South Africa during the early 1900s shaped his views on racial injustice and resistance. It was here that he developed the principles of Satyagraha, which later inspired some early East African freedom thinkers, including Kenya.

Kenya’s fight for independence took a different route. The Mau Mau uprising of the 1950s was marked by armed resistance, but it also laid the groundwork for civic unity and national identity. In the decades that followed, Kenya saw a rise in peaceful activism.

Wangari Maathai, Nobel Laureate, used non-violent protest to protect forests and empower women, Boniface Mwangi and PAWA254 turned art and media into tools for civic accountability and Youth-led movements today use podcasts, social media, and peaceful marches to demand transparency and justice.

This year, the observance comes at a time when Kenya is preparing for 2027 general elections and the civic discourse is more vibrant than ever. From Eldoret to Nairobi, young Kenyans are embracing peaceful advocacy challenging performative leadership and amplifying marginalized voices.

Gandhi's legacy is being used to promote conflict resolution, tolerance, and active citizenship in schools, community groups, and via social media.

As Kenya looks on its past and prepares for the future, the International Day of Nonviolence reminds us that peaceful opposition is not weakness, but rather wisdom. 

Gandhi’s legacy lives on in every Kenyan who chooses dialogue.

“You may never know what results come from your actions. But if you do nothing, there will be no result,”  said Mahatma Gandhi.

As Kenya honors Gandhi’s legacy, we are reminded that peaceful resistance shaped our history and is guiding our future. From Mau Mau to civic podcasts, non-violence remains a powerful tool for justice, unity, and change especially in today’s politically charged climate