The 4th generation is here (see article below this one)! They are the emerging generation in our churches today. What are some of their characteristics?
- Born in the 1980's and 90's - in Kenya, they went through the 8-4-4 school system
- They are regionally conscious but globally aware. We are witnessing the first East African generation. Many went to school with friends from across the region, or have been exposed to regional culture through EATV or radio.
- Their primary language is sheng & they identify with the hip-hop culture
- They are very entrepreneurial - due to lack of jobs, they were forced to become extremely creative, and to move away from the 'white-collar orientation' of the previous two generations.
- They are extremely expressive and artistic (I refer to them as 'the sight and sound generation') They would rather watch it than read it!
- They are the first generation where its cool to aspire to be a DJ or a dancer - as a career!
Considering that 50% of Africa is less than 15 years old, we need to be paying attention! Rather than insisting they learn our language, perhaps we should be learning theirs! Incidentally, the corporate world has figured that out, and a majority of the ads on our TV stations are aimed at this demographic. I believe how well we reach this generation will determine how successful the church will be in penetrating African culture in the next 10 or 15 years. Anybody listening?
1 comment:
i so totally agree with you were you say that the church that reaches to out to this group is on the right track. yaani, if the Konys (LRA) of this world have tapped into this resource for evil, how much more for us the church that is connected to ultimate power...God!
Post a Comment