Jacobs said 71.5 per cent of Kenya’s population was under 35. He said this presented an opportunity for Kenya and other African countries to prepare young people for emerging jobs and leadership roles.
He spoke on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at the inaugural Youth Convention at Serani Grounds in Mombasa, where young people, government officials and elected leaders gathered to discuss youth empowerment and development.
Preparing young people for work and leadership
Jacobs said Africa could benefit from rising international demand for skilled workers if governments and other stakeholders invested in training and gave young people exposure to opportunities in the global labour market. He said these efforts should also help young people develop ideas, start businesses and take up leadership roles.
“The task before us is to shape a generation with the right mindset, skills, exposure and ambition to take up strategic roles in the global economy, drive innovation and position Africa as a competitive player in the changing world of work,” Jacobs said.
He commended Zamzam Mohamed for organising the convention, saying it gave young people a chance to exchange ideas, explore opportunities and discuss issues affecting their future.
The event was attended by Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, MPs and MCAs.
Speaking at the Kenya Youth Devolution Festival at Pwani University in Kilifi on October 29, Jacobs urged young people to take an active role in democratic processes ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“Our democracy is stronger when young people engage responsibly and take an active role in shaping the nation’s future,” he said.
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