President William Ruto on Monday launched the University of Nairobi (UoN) Silicon Savannah Innovation Park at State House, Nairobi.
The park, part of the larger Silicon Savannah initiative, is designed to be a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence, green engineering and advanced manufacturing.
The Sh4.7 billion initiative is one of five planned major projects to transform the university, dubbed the “Big 5”, and is an initiative invested in by the Government of France.
In his speech at the launch, President Ruto urged the youth to embrace opportunities created by the government, saying that the Silicon Savannah project is an investment in the future of Kenya's youth.
"I have a message for the youth of Kenya: Your government is shaping the future, working for you and providing opportunities for you to learn, work, create and innovate a way forward for yourself and for Kenya. The Silicon Savannah Innovation Park is your platform to define the future of Kenya's digital economy," said President Ruto.
He added that the innovation park positions Kenya as a global hub for technology and innovation, and that Kenya is keen to actively participate in the 5th Industrial Revolution.
“The Silicon Savannah Innovation Park is more than an infrastructure project; it is an investment in our people, our future, and our global standing. Our message is clear: Kenya will not merely participate in the 5th Industrial Revolution; we will lead it. Let us seize this defining moment to turn our vision into a legacy of inclusive transformation that endures for generations,” he said.
He also stressed that the park is a critical step towards achieving Kenya's Vision 2030 and Africa's Agenda 2063.
“Our youth represent Africa’s most valuable resource, a boundless reservoir of energy, creativity, and ambition. This project is not just about creating jobs; it is about reshaping Kenya’s economic DNA,” he said.
