Kenya has committed to strengthening bilateral relations with France, placing youth empowerment, innovation, education and research at the heart of the two countries’ growing partnership.
Speaking during the 146th French National Day (Bastille Day) celebrations held at the University of Nairobi, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi said the Kenya–France partnership continues to create opportunities for young people through scientific research, technical and vocational training, entrepreneurship and cultural exchange.
Mudavadi underscored the importance of investing in Kenya’s youthful population, noting that nearly 80 per cent of the country’s population is below the age of 35.
He said education, innovation and skills development remain central to the Government’s socio-economic transformation agenda and are critical to unlocking Kenya’s economic potential.
He praised the expanding collaboration between Kenya and France in science and technology, particularly in artificial intelligence research that supports African languages, including Kiswahili.
According to Mudavadi, the initiative demonstrates how technology can preserve cultural heritage while driving innovation, economic growth and job creation.
The Cabinet Secretary also highlighted the outcomes of the Africa Forward Summit, co-hosted by Kenya and France in Nairobi in May, where both countries reaffirmed their commitment to advancing innovation, industrialisation and investment with young people at the centre of the partnership.
He welcomed plans to establish a new Engineering and Science Complex at the University of Nairobi, a project jointly supported by the Governments of Kenya and France through the French Development Agency (AFD).
Mudavadi described the facility as a significant investment that will strengthen scientific research, innovation and higher education in Kenya.
French Ambassador to Kenya Arnaud Suquet said cooperation between Kenya and France continues to expand across education, research, innovation and youth engagement.
He noted that partnerships between French institutions and Kenyan universities are opening new opportunities for young researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs.
Mudavadi also commended Ambassador Suquet for his contribution to strengthening Kenya–France relations during his tenure.
He reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation, saying the enduring partnership reflects the two countries’ shared vision of promoting sustainable development, knowledge exchange and prosperity for future generations.
The event was attended by Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Dr. Korir Sing’oei, members of the diplomatic corps, university leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs and students.
by Joseph Ng’ang’a
