President William Ruto has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to putting young people at the center of Kenya’s development agenda, describing the nation’s greatest asset as its human capital, with the youth forming the largest share.

Speaking on Tuesday August 12, 2025 during the International Youth Day celebrations in Kakamega, the President outlined a series of measures his administration has undertaken to create jobs, equip young people with skills, and protect Kenyans seeking work abroad.

He said that through the Kazi Majuu program, more than 430,000 Kenyans have secured jobs overseas, with the government sealing loopholes that in the past left them exposed to exploitation, poor pay, and even sexual abuse. 

A dedicated Principal Secretary now oversees diaspora affairs to ensure Kenyans working abroad receive the support they need.

Ruto praised the country’s strong education system and English proficiency, noting that these advantages have boosted diaspora remittances, which are now the single largest source of foreign exchange for Kenya.

He said the government can now track where Kenyans are working, respond swiftly to any problems, and ensure their safety and dignity.

Locally, he said, the government is running seven deliberate programs to create opportunities for young people, including a housing program expected to employ at least one million youths annually, a digital economy initiative that has trained 1.9 million people and secured 300,000 jobs, and a KSh 20 billion fund to support youth-led enterprises. 

New digital hubs are also being established to equip more young people with the skills to tap into online work.

The President noted that his first priority upon assuming office was to address the shortage of teachers.

Out of a deficit of 116,000, the government has already hired 100,000 teachers, leaving only 6,000 positions unfilled. 

To strengthen the education sector further, the government has allocated KSh 650 billion, 30 percent of the national budget to expand learning opportunities and provide pathways for young people after school.

Ruto said the government’s focus on training, skills development, and job creation is designed to ensure that every young Kenyan has a fair shot at success, whether at home or abroad, and that their talents, knowledge, and expertise are fully harnessed for the country’s growth.