President William Ruto officially opened the 4th Africa Sub-Sovereign Network (AfSNET) Conference in Kisumu on November 26, 2024, calling for collaborative efforts to address Africa’s economic challenges and accelerate its transformation.
Speaking at the Grand Royal City in Kisumu, President Ruto lauded the role of devolution in Kenya’s governance, highlighting its success in bringing services closer to the people. He emphasized the importance of sub-sovereign governments in driving grassroots development and strengthening intra-African trade.
“Devolution has been a tremendous innovation, empowering grassroots participation and safeguarding equity in resource allocation,” the president stated.
Ruto also commended Afreximbank for its pivotal role in Africa’s economic growth. He pointed to the $3 billion Kenya Country Programme, aligned with Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which supports critical sectors such as agriculture, MSMEs, and industrialization.
“Afreximbank’s strategic partnership is unlocking Kenya’s potential to achieve robust economic growth. Its innovative approaches are instrumental in addressing Africa’s unique financing needs,” he said.
The president noted Africa’s economic crisis—marked by rising food prices, energy costs, and unsustainable debt levels—and urged the continent to strengthen integration and resilience through institutions like Afreximbank. He called for the swift implementation of the Pan-African Payment and Settlements System to enhance trade efficiency.
Ruto’s speech also spotlighted Kisumu’s strategic role in Kenya’s development, pledging continued government support for local initiatives such as the Special Economic Zone in Miwani and the Kabonyo Kanyagwal Fisheries and Aquaculture Training Center.
Concluding his remarks, Ruto encouraged delegates to engage deeply in the conference and take time to experience Kisumu’s renowned attractions.
“The fourth Sub-Sovereign Network Conference is now officially opened. Let us collectively work towards a prosperous and united Africa,” the president declared.
