President Ruto calls on Africa to embrace digital tools for jobs and growth
President William Ruto stressed that combining the strengths of African nations can bridge economic gaps, create jobs, and raise living standards across the continent.
President William Ruto challenged African leaders to use digital technology to transform the region into a hub of sustainable growth and inclusive prosperity, saying integration is no longer optional in the competitive global economy.
Speaking at the 24th COMESA Summit in Nairobi on Thursday, he stressed that combining the strengths of African nations can bridge economic gaps, create jobs, and raise living standards across the continent.
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“It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all to the 24th COMESA summit of heads of state and government here in Nairobi, a forum that allows us to reflect on the milestones achieved and chart the way forward for our organisation, the COMESA,” Ruto said.
The president highlighted that hosting the summit reinforces Kenya’s Vision 2030, which seeks to transform the country into a middle-income economy through cross-border cooperation.
He noted that regional economic communities like COMESA are central to achieving sustainable growth, with institutions playing a key role in deepening integration and supporting initiatives that benefit all member states.
“At the heart of our mission are our people and our shared determination to bridge the economic and social gaps that divide our region,” Ruto said, emphasising that integration must also foster peace, stability, and resilience across borders.
The President underlined the summit theme, “Leveraging digitalisation to deepen regional value chains for sustainable and inclusive growth,” as a timely response to global trade disruptions, rising protectionism, climate impacts, and food insecurity.
He said digital tools can optimise resource use, improve energy efficiency, streamline trade, and open new markets for small and medium enterprises.
“Digital transformation is not just about technology. It is about people. It’s about jobs. It’s about opportunities and competitiveness,” Ruto said, calling on member states to invest in capacity building so citizens can thrive in the digital economy.
He also urged the region to shift from exporting raw materials to value-added products to ensure sustainable and inclusive prosperity.
Concluding his remarks, Ruto welcomed fellow heads of state and distinguished guests, wishing the summit productive deliberations and reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to making COMESA a globally competitive and inclusive regional bloc.
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