NAIROBI,kenya-President William Ruto has reaffirmed his administration’s push to empower young Kenyans through digital transformation, saying structured investment in technology will create employment and reduce youth unrest.
While inaugurating a newly constructed ICT laboratory at Simotwo High School in Elgeyo Marakwet County, the President emphasized the growing importance of digital literacy and innovation in addressing joblessness among the youth.
“We now have close to 300 Jitume Labs across the country and we have close to 180,000 young people who understand the opportunities that are there in the digital space. There are real opportunities in this space,” Ruto said.
The government is also scaling up internet connectivity by rolling out fibre optic infrastructure nationwide, a move aimed at enhancing digital access and inclusion in all regions.
“What we are doing as a government is to continuously make these opportunities available. We are spreading fibre optic cables around Kenya to make sure everybody is connected to the internet,” the President noted.
In a further push to mainstream technology across all counties, the Executive has submitted a request to Parliament for additional funding to accelerate ICT development.
Ruto asserted this budgetary allocation will support the establishment of ICT hubs in every ward, promoting grassroots innovation and entrepreneurship.
These hubs, he said, are designed to provide training, digital tools, and job opportunities, particularly in underserved rural areas, while opening up avenues for local and global commerce.
Ruto called for constructive alternatives, urging young people to seize digital opportunities instead of turning to riots and vandalism.
The government’s digital economy agenda is part of a broader vision to position Kenya as a regional leader in innovation and technology-driven growth.
