President William Ruto has committed to fully funding the establishment of ICT hubs in Vihiga County as part of his administration’s strategy to address youth unemployment.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Luanda Modern Market on Wednesday, Ruto emphasized the transformative potential of technology in empowering young people.
He urged the Vihiga County Government to accelerate the construction of additional ICT hubs, describing technology as an essential driver of economic growth and development.
“I want to ensure that our youth are well-equipped to work with computers, earn an income, and ultimately contribute to the economic growth of our nation,” President Ruto stated.
The President assured that his government would provide the necessary infrastructure, including internet connectivity, computers, and professional trainers, to ensure the ICT hubs serve their intended purpose.
In addition to the ICT hubs, President Ruto outlined various initiatives aimed at creating job opportunities for Vihiga County’s youth. These include the ongoing Luanda Modern Market project, the construction of five additional markets, and the development of 4,000 housing units under the affordable housing program.
Ruto pledged to prioritize local labor for these projects, stating, “I will not bring people from outside to do this work. I will call upon the youth of Vihiga County to undertake these projects.”
The President also encouraged young people to use the internet as a tool for financial empowerment and entrepreneurship, rather than engaging in unproductive activities online.
“The internet is not a platform for insults or negativity. It’s there to create wealth and uplift lives,” he said, urging youth to embrace online opportunities that align with the government’s push for tech-driven solutions to economic challenges.
The ICT hubs are part of a broader plan by the government to combat youth unemployment. In addition to promoting technology, Ruto’s administration is leveraging affordable housing projects and labor migration programs to create sustainable employment opportunities for Kenya’s young population.
These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to addressing unemployment and fostering economic growth through innovation and infrastructure development.
