The 8th KIPPRA Annual Regional Conference 2025

The 8th Annual Regional Conference organized by the Kenya Institute for Public Policy and Research Analysis (KIPPRA) themed: “Shaping Pathways to Future Jobs:Unlocking Opportunities for the youth,” kicked off today, Wednesday, 21st May, 2025 at the Kenya School of Government (KSG).

This year’s theme is timely and presents an ideal opportunity for stakeholders to identify and implement targeted actions that address the pressing needs, aspirations and challenges of the young people. It also provides a strategic opportunity to develop and implement well thought-out initiatives and action plans.

Addressing the delegates, the State Department for Economic Planning, Principal Secretary, Dr. Bonface Makokha, highlighted the importance underscored by the Kenya Vision 2030 which is the Country’s long-term development plan. It views the youth demographic as a key force in driving the nation’s social and economic progress.

The First-day conference discussions centered around key sub-themes including Digital Transformation and infrastructure, the Creative Economy, Talent and Innovation, and Human Capital Development. The Digital Superhighway and Creative Economy have been recognized as central pillars of Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) which aligns closely with the Country’s Development Goals.

“The pathways, therefore, that will be identified during this conference, will play a crucial role in laying a strong foundation for the country to leverage its demographic dividend and fast-track economic growth and development,” PS Dr. Makokha said.

Flanked by his counterpart from the State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy PS Fikirini Jacobs, Dr. Bonface Makokha told the conference that the organizers deserved accolades.

He applauded the efforts made in coming up with such an authentic and inspiring theme that recognizes the trends shaping the way of life for the young populace.

Dr. Makokha added that the theme also resonates very well with the current social, economic, and technological changes that are affecting the society and the world at large.

Additionally, the Fourth-Medium Term Plan (MTP IV) aligned with BETA, concentrates on utilizing the youth population by moving beyond traditional employment approaches in order to foster an innovative and entrepreneurial workforce.

On his part, the State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, Principal Secretary, Fikirini Jacobs, highlighted that with the focus to better support the young people, the Ministry is currently rolling out the; ‘National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement’ (NYOTA) programme. This initiative aims to address key challenges such as unemployment, low income, and limited savings among the youth.

PS Fikirini reiterated that the Kenya’s youthful population is dynamic, creative and full of potential. The Young people have consistently shown their capacity to excel in diverse fields among others, technology, business, the arts, sports and community-driven initiatives, he added.

During the Conference, the KIPPRA-PEP Mastercard Foundation initiatives from various African Countries including Uganda and Rwanda stipulated their efforts and achievements in youth employment within their respective nations.

The three-day Conference aims to provide a valuable platform for discussing key public policy issues and exploring pathways for sustainable employment opportunities for the youth. The Government through the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda and the execution of the Fourth Medium Term Plan, is dedicated in reshaping the economy and broadening employment opportunities for Kenya’s youth.

Also in attendance were : KIPPRA Board Chair, Prof. Paul Wachana, KIPPRA Ag. Executive Director, Dr. Eldah Onsomu, Kenya School of Government, Director General, Prof. Nura Mohamed, KNBS Director General, Dr.MacDonald Obudho, SDEP Ag. EPSs; Timothy Gakuu, Leah Chirchir, and Festus Wangwe, KIPPRA Board Members among others.