Ruto: Kenya is now manufacturing phones and computers
By Mustafa Juma, May 11, 2026President William Ruto has announced that Kenya is now manufacturing phones, computers, and other digital infrastructure products as the government intensifies efforts to position the country as a regional technology and innovation hub.
Speaking at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Monday, May 11, 2026, during the opening day of the Africa Forward Summit, Ruto said the government is heavily investing in education reforms, digital infrastructure, and technology-driven development.
Digital transformation
The president said Kenya is aligning its education system to meet modern technological and economic demands while simultaneously expanding digital connectivity across the country.
“In Kenya, apart from reforming the education system, putting in more money and realigning education so that it speaks to the requirements of now, we are also investing in digital infrastructure,” Ruto said.
Claim on local manufacturing
Ruto further stated that Kenya has already started manufacturing digital products locally, including mobile phones and computers.
“We are manufacturing now here in Kenya a lot of digital assets, whether it is phones, whether it is computers, and all that digital infrastructure,” he stated.
The president did not immediately provide detailed figures or specify the companies involved in the manufacturing operations, but his remarks come amid ongoing government efforts to promote local assembly and technology production.
Expansion of fibre optic network
Ruto also highlighted ongoing investments in internet infrastructure, saying the government is laying 30,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable to improve digital connectivity nationwide.
“We are laying fibre optics to 30,000 km already in Kenya to make sure that every part of Kenya is in the loop,” he added.
The expansion is expected to support internet access, digital services, e-learning, e-commerce, and technology-based businesses across urban and rural areas.
Africa Forward Summit
The president was speaking during the Africa Forward Summit, a major international gathering bringing together heads of state, investors, technology leaders, and policymakers in Nairobi.
The summit is focusing on Africa’s economic transformation through innovation, artificial intelligence, green energy, infrastructure development, manufacturing, and youth employment.
Kenya is hosting the summit as part of efforts to strengthen its image as a continental leader in technology, innovation, and digital transformation.
The government has, in recent years, increased investments in digital infrastructure and technology-focused programmes aimed at expanding access to online services and creating opportunities for young people.