DR. KORIR SINGOEI DURING SOCIAL INNOVATION PAVILION IN STRATHMORE UNIVERSITY
Thinkers, creators, activists, and social innovators convened at the Social Innovation Pavilion held at the Strathmore University Auditorium on the eve of the Africa Forward Summit to discuss solutions to some of Africa’s most pressing challenges.
The gathering brought together diverse voices from across the continent to explore six key themes: protection of natural resources, maternal health, institutional reform, digital-age challenges, transforming power relations, and the future of international solidarity.
Speaking during the event, Principal Secretary, State Department for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Korir Sing'Oei, emphasized the need for inclusive development and the central role of citizens in shaping Africa’s future amid growing global uncertainty. Dr. Sing’Oei noted that Africa continues to face mounting challenges, including economic instability, climate pressures, inequality, and technological disruption, even as citizens increasingly demand dignity, justice, and economic opportunity.
The Principal Secretary underscored the importance of civil society, innovators, researchers, women, and youth in strengthening democracy, accountability, social cohesion, and sustainable development across the continent.
Highlighting Africa’s vast potential, Dr. Sing’Oei pointed to the continent’s natural resources, youthful population, entrepreneurial energy, and cultural strength. However, he cautioned that these advantages must translate into shared prosperity and resilience for ordinary citizens. He further stressed the significance of the Africa Forward agenda in advancing green industrialisation, financial reform, digital transformation, agriculture, healthcare, and regional integration through initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area.
At the global level, Dr. Sing’Oei reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to equitable international partnerships, climate justice, debt reform, and stronger African representation in global institutions. He said Africa’s greatest asset remains its people and urged Africans to take the lead in building the continent’s future through stronger institutions, inclusive societies, and fair partnerships.
President of the Senior Management Committee of the Innovation Foundation for Democracy, Souleyman Bachir, unveiled a white paper booklet that will guide discussions during the Africa Forward Summit. He emphasized the need to reform institutions through ethical and political leadership while embracing the power of Artificial Intelligence in Africa’s development. Prof. Bachir also stressed the importance of African unity and solidarity through the spirit of ubuntu.
Chairperson of the Kenyan Section of the International Commission of Jurists, Christine Alai, highlighted the importance of social justice, the rule of law, and good governance. She urged participants to champion the message that Africa holds its own destiny through unity and collective responsibility.
The Director General of Paris Peace Forum, Justin Vaisse, explained that the forum was established in 2018 to strengthen multilateralism and support global peace efforts. He noted that partnerships among nations are essential in addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable development.
The white paper booklet was developed by the Kenyan Section of the International Commission of Jurists, the Center for Innovation for Democracy, and the Paris Peace Forum in collaboration with the State Department for Foreign Affairs.