Nairobi summit brings pressure on corporate leaders to back local investments

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has called for stronger collaboration between the government, the private sector, and development partners to build a competitive and inclusive economy.

Speaking on Tuesday at the third Africa Women Transformative Summit (AWTS 3.0) in Nairobi, Ruku challenged women leaders and corporate executives to take a leading role in driving socio-economic transformation through investment, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

The gathering brought together female leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and corporate managers representing 16 countries.

Delegates focused discussions on inclusive leadership, digital transformation, economic empowerment, and improved public service delivery.

Ruku commended the organizers, Top Level Management (TLM), for establishing a platform that promotes leadership, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment across the African continent.

The Cabinet Secretary challenged women leaders working in the corporate sector to increase direct investment in local communities.

He urged them to actively seize opportunities emerging from the digital economy, specifically noting that fields like artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, and cloud computing present prospects for innovation.

He praised the growing contribution of women and young people to the regional economy, describing them as key engines of growth in both formal and informal sectors.

However, Ruku noted that cultural and structural barriers continue to limit resource access for many female and young entrepreneurs, preventing them from fully exploiting their potential.

Empowering these groups through technology, skills development, and investment remains critical to position Kenya and the continent to benefit from an evolving global digital landscape.

The Cabinet Secretary highlighted ongoing state reforms within the public service intended to improve service delivery and create a business-friendly environment.

The ministry is investing in human capital development through professional training programmes at the Kenya School of Government.