Uasin Gishu county is rolling out a series of strategic initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for young people to innovate and thrive in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
Governor Jonathan Bii said the programmes are designed to help youth tap into the vast potential of the digital sector and benefit from emerging opportunities.
He said the establishment and equipping of ICT centres, alongside the rollout of Wi-Fi hotspots across the county, are among the key interventions his administration has prioritised to empower the youth and foster a culture of innovation.
Bii said many young people continue to face economic and social challenges caused by high unemployment rates, adding that creating opportunities across all sectors would help restore hope among the youth.
“As a county working with the national government and other development partners, we are committed to implementing deliberate measures that will transform the lives of our youth,” he said.
He spoke in Eldoret during the inaugural Kenya Software and AI Summit, which was attended by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
Bii emphasised that the county views young people as the driving force behind innovation, technological advancement and sustainable economic growth.
“In this era of Artificial Intelligence, it is imperative that we create avenues for our youth to fully harness the immense opportunities available in the digital space,” he said.
He said the county is implementing a programme to provide free wireless Internet hotspots, enabling young people to access digital resources, develop innovative solutions and turn their skills into viable economic ventures.
The governor added that AI is transforming the way people live, work and grow—particularly within the digital and agricultural sectors.
“Our goal is clear: to build a smart, innovative city where AI strengthens all pillars under Nguzo Kumi,” he said.
He said the county is investing resources to develop infrastructure and policies that expand opportunities for both formal and self-employment.
“As we strive to create these opportunities, we also urge our youth to acquire the necessary skills and training to fully utilise them,” Bii said.
He added that his administration continues to prioritise youth in all available employment opportunities.
Information, Communications and the Digital Economy CS William Kabogo, together with senior national and county officials, attended the three-day summit at Moi University School of Law.
