President William Ruto has urged university and college students across Kenya to take part in the upcoming 11th Huawei ICT Competition, emphasizing the event as a platform to enhance digital skills and gain global exposure.
Speaking at the 2026 Huawei ICT Competition Global Awards held at State House, Nairobi, on July 28, 2026, President Ruto praised Kenya for being the first country worldwide to open registration for the contest.
Key highlights from the event include:
- Kenyan universities earned global recognition, reflecting the country's growing status as a digital innovation hub.
- Huawei's ICT Academy has collaborated with 61 Kenyan institutions, training over 15,000 students in digital competencies.
- Kenya secured its first Grand Prize in the Cloud Track and an award for an all-female team at the 2025/26 global finals in Shenzhen, China.
President Ruto noted these achievements as evidence of Kenya’s expanding investment in technology and the readiness of its youth to compete internationally.
In parallel, Information, Communications and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo encouraged public input on the Draft Kenya Artificial Intelligence and Other Emerging Technologies Policy 2026. The policy aims to regulate AI development while fostering innovation and protecting citizens’ rights. Contributions are open until August 4, 2026.
The President’s appeal aligns with government initiatives to nurture a skilled digital workforce and strengthen partnerships with the private sector to drive Kenya’s technological advancement.
