Ruto: Kenya Investing in Youth Innovation to Lead Africa’s Tech Future
By Jeff Kizzilah
The Government of Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young people through investments in education, science, technology, and innovation to ensure they remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Speaking during an engagement with innovators at the University of Nairobi alongside William Ruto and Emmanuel Macron at the Africa Forward Summit 2026, President Ruto said Kenya is reforming its education system to equip youth with skills in science, technology, engineering, and innovation.
The President noted that the government’s goal is to position Kenyan youth as creators, innovators, and problem-solvers capable of driving economic growth and addressing local and global challenges through technology.
“We are investing in our youth to ensure they remain competitive in an ever-evolving technological landscape. By reforming our education system, we are empowering young people to keep pace with global trends in science and technology, positioning them as creators and innovators rather than mere consumers,” said President Ruto.
As part of the partnership between Kenya and France, the President announced ongoing collaboration in the construction of the University of Nairobi Science and Engineering Complex, which is expected to become a leading research and innovation hub in Kenya and across the region.
President Ruto emphasized that the government remains committed to creating an enabling environment where young innovators can transform their ideas into impactful solutions that address challenges in healthcare, agriculture, climate change, manufacturing, and digital transformation.
“Our youth are the present and the future, and we are committed to laying the supportive foundation they need to transform their ideas into solutions for our diverse challenges,” he added.
The engagement formed part of activities during the Africa Forward Summit, which has brought together leaders, innovators, investors, and development partners to discuss Africa’s economic transformation and the role of youth-driven innovation in shaping the continent’s future.
