Huawei LEAP Job Fair empowers Kenya’s youth for digital future
Deputy President Professor Kithure Kindiki has underscored the role of technology, youth engagement, and partnerships as the key drivers of future economies.
Speaking at the Huawei LEAP Job Fair, where over 60 Chinese and Kenyan enterprises convened at the University of Nairobi Grounds the DP reiterated government’s commitment in creating an enabling environment for local and foreign enterprises.
“Our government is committed to creating an enabling environment for local and foreign enterprises, and we encourage all firms to prioritize Kenyan talent. We envision Kenya as Africa’s preferred talent hub.”
Held under the theme ‘Unlocking Potential, Building Connections,’ the event brought together government leaders, corporate executives, and education stakeholders, showcasing a united effort to foster youth employment, innovation, and digital skills development in Kenya.
Prof. Kindiki applauded private sector players for aligning their initiatives with national goals, including youth empowerment and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
“If we are to create jobs, deliver national solutions in infrastructure, energy, water, and healthcare we must think outside the box. The future belongs to technology, people, and partnerships, especially with the youth at the center,” said Kindiki.
He further stated that the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for local and foreign enterprises, urging all firms to prioritize Kenyan talent as part of Kenya’s vision to become Africa’s preferred talent hub.
The job fair, co-hosted by the Kenya-China Economic and Trade Association (KCETA) and the University of Nairobi, offered more than 1,700 job opportunities to Kenyan youth, underlining the depth of collaboration between Kenya and China in promoting industrial growth and inclusive development.
In his remarks, the President of KCETA and General Manager of China Road and Bridge Corporation (Kenya), Yu Xiaodong, emphasized the enduring and evolving nature of China-Kenya cooperation.
“This fair is a strong symbol of the growing, results-driven partnership between China and Kenya. Over 60 enterprises are offering more than 1,700 job opportunities today.”
He highlighted the contributions of Chinese enterprises to Kenya’s development, from infrastructure projects like the Standard Gauge Railway and Nairobi Expressway to investments in people through skills development initiatives.
“Chinese companies are deeply invested in local employment and training. Huawei alone trains around 6,000 students annually, while KEDA Ceramics has created over 50,000 jobs directly and indirectly,” he noted.
KCETA, with 104 member companies, reaffirmed its support for Kenya’s Vision 2030 and pledged to continue strengthening partnerships with training institutions, promoting merit-based hiring, and expanding upskilling programs.
Geoffrey Odundo, Group Managing Director and CEO of Nation Media Group, highlighted the company’s active role in driving national transformation through media and partnerships.
“At Nation Media Group, we believe in the power of information to transform lives and today, we extend that power through action. By co-hosting the LEAP Job Fair, we are not only creating visibility for job opportunities but also reinforcing our commitment to youth empowerment, digital transformation, and economic progress. Together with our partners, we are building a future where every young Kenyan can dream bigger and do more.” He said.
Gavin Gao, CEO of Huawei Technologies Kenya, reiterated Huawei’s long-term commitment to empowering Kenyan youth. “This year’s theme ‘Unlocking Potential, Building Connections’ resonates deeply with our mission. We don’t just build networks; we empower people to realise their potential.” Gao remarked.
Through the LEAP initiative (Learn, Engage, Accelerate, Progress), Huawei aims to equip over 100,000 Kenyan youth with skills in cloud computing, AI, networking, and cybersecurity by 2026.
Gao also introduced the Huawei Management Trainee Program (HMTP), which has trained over 200 graduates, 133 of whom are now full-time Huawei employees. “LEAP is more than a program—it’s a movement toward a future where Kenyan youth lead in innovation and digital transformation,” added Gao.
Huawei also collaborates with more than 50 universities and TVET institutions through ICT Academies and partners with the Government of Kenya to support the Digital Superhighway initiative.
“The future doesn’t happen to you it’s something you build. Huawei is here to walk that journey with Kenya’s youth, as a technology partner and a career enabler,” Gao added.
The Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, Guo Haiyan, celebrated the six-decade-long China-Kenya partnership and its people-centered approach. “Chinese companies are not only building roads and networks they are also creating long-term careers and skills development opportunities for Kenyan youth.”
She praised Chinese enterprises for employing over 60,000 Kenyans and supporting local education, healthcare, and environmental programs.
“Today’s job fair is a testament to our integrated industrial and human resource cooperation. I hope every job seeker here finds a path that fulfills their potential and contributes to Kenya’s growth.” Haiyan noted.