Ruto challenges Africa to leverage its strength for growth

President William Ruto has challenged Africa to step forward and harness its strength for growth.

He said the continent is endowed with natural capital that can power global progress.

He noted that agriculture and manufacturing alone cannot deliver real transformation in Africa.

“We must also invest in services, technology and human capital to more create jobs and generate wealth,” he said.

He was speaking in London on Wednesday during The Africa Debate 2025.

President Ruto said Kenya was modernising agriculture to boost productivity, enhance food security.

“We are also advancing industrialisation to build competitive manufacturing capacity, substitute imports, diversify exports and anchor resilient local supply chains.”

We are supporting MSMEs to transition into the formal economy, unlocking access to finance, markets, and skills.

Meanwhile, President Ruto has reaffirmed the government’s support for a financial ecosystem that fosters innovation, upholds trust and delivers prosperity.

He said this during the signing ceremony between the Nairobi International Financial Centre Authority and Lloyd’s.

The President termed the formal announcement of Lloyd’s intention to establish a regional office in Nairobi a “significant milestone”.

“It is a defining moment for the continent. It affirms Kenya’s rising status as a destination of choice for international capital, financial services, and enterprise,” he noted.

The collaboration, he explained, will unlock new opportunities to expand Africa’s access to global risk markets.

“It will also strengthen the resilience of our economies and build regional capacity in underwriting, actuarial science and specialised financial solutions.”