Aasai

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has challenged Kenyan youth to embrace technology and digital innovation as a gateway to employment, wealth creation, and national development. Speaking on Tuesday at the launch of the Huawei LEAP Job Fair 2025 held at the University of Nairobi, Prof. Kindiki emphasized that the government is actively deepening partnerships with international tech companies to open new avenues of opportunity for young people.

In his keynote address, the DP painted a clear picture of how technology is becoming the cornerstone of global problem-solving. He stated that in this century, no country can afford to ignore the digital revolution, especially when addressing challenges like unemployment. “We must empower young people to realize both their current potential and their long-term aspirations. Technology must be at the center of every effort to create jobs and opportunities. Companies like Huawei are not just shaping the tech landscape — they are holding the future of young people in their hands,” Kindiki noted.

He welcomed the increasing role of Africa in driving global technological growth, highlighting that the continent’s youthful population is its greatest asset. With an average age of just 19, Africa stands out as the youngest continent in the world. According to Kindiki, this demographic advantage positions Africa at the very heart of global transformation. “Africa is not on the sidelines. We are at the center of shaping the future. Our young population is our strength — a key ingredient in the digital revolution,” he remarked.

Turning to the pressing issue of youth unemployment, the Deputy President acknowledged that millions of young Kenyans struggle daily with limited access to jobs, income, and skills. This, he warned, has led to social problems such as rising crime rates, drug abuse, and feelings of hopelessness among the youth. “The inability to access employment is the most urgent challenge facing our young people. And this is not just a Kenyan issue — it’s global. But here at home, we’re treating it as a matter of urgent national importance,” he said.

To combat this crisis, the DP outlined several key government initiatives. These include the promotion of digital jobs, expanding vocational training programs, and providing platforms for youth to acquire relevant ICT skills. He emphasized that solving unemployment requires more than government action — it demands solid cooperation with the private sector.

“The partnership between the government and private sector must be strengthened. No single entity can solve these complex issues alone. We must blur the lines and collaborate. Governments must recognize that they are no longer the sole providers of solutions,” Prof. Kindiki stated.

He praised private tech companies like Huawei for their role in supporting digital inclusion and job creation, adding that such partnerships are essential to Kenya’s economic growth. The Huawei LEAP Job Fair is one example of how technology can link job seekers to employers and equip youth with real-world skills.

In conclusion, Kindiki reiterated that the digital space is not just the future — it is the present. He urged all stakeholders to work together to prepare young people for the opportunities ahead. “We are building a future where every young person has a fair shot at success — through technology, training, and innovation. The journey starts now,” he said.