Nairobi: In a bid to address the rising demand for employment opportunities among the youth, the French Government, through the Alliance Fran§aise, has officially committed to deepening its strategic partnership with Kenya to nurture local talents, bolster small enterprises, and ensure that creative artists are fairly and consistently compensated for their craft.
According to Kenya News Agency, the French Ambassador to Kenya, Arnaud Suquet, spoke as the chief guest during the official opening of the Kenya-France Youth Innovation Day celebrations held at the University of Nairobi. He emphasized the critical role that the creative economy plays in driving youth empowerment and providing sustainable livelihoods. The Ambassador stressed that the creative sector is a major economic driver that requires structured financial and institutional support to fully thrive.
Suquet stated the importance of artists being paid well for their art, highlighting the Africa Forward Concert with Kenyan artists as part of this initiative. He pointed out that fair remuneration remains a significant challenge for young Kenyans trying to enter the professional art scene. The Ambassador also highlighted the extensive grassroots reach of the French cultural network across Kenya, noting that their operations extend beyond Nairobi to regions like Mombasa, Eldoret, and Kisumu.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, Professor Eng. Ayub Njoroge Gitau, welcomed the collaboration, noting the transformation of the campus into a hub of ideas, innovation, and networking. Professor Gitau revealed that the Youth and Innovation Day was a success, drawing 1,076 participants who engaged in thematic discussions and exhibitions. He praised the students and innovators for their creativity in addressing local and global challenges.
The celebration concluded with a festival of culture, music, and friendship, aligning with the French National Day festivities. Organizers and delegates noted that the event symbolizes the partnership between Kenya and France, emphasizing investment in youth, knowledge, and innovation as the path to a prosperous and sustainable economic future.
