Government turns to gaming in youth empowerment drive

Chess fans in action during an event organised by KICC designed to offer youth space to connect, learn and grow in Nairobi, on August 25, 2025. [Wilberforce Okwiri, Standard]

Kenya is turning youth empowerment on its head, replacing boardrooms with gaming halls, chess boards and anime festivals in a new national programme.

The Ministry of Tourism through the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) is leading the effort to use creative industries and technology as tools for skills development and innovation.

The initiative offers monthly activities ranging from gaming competitions and innovation showcases to mentorship sessions aimed at sharpening problem-solving and teamwork skills among young people.

This month’s edition includes Omatsuri 2025, a celebration of anime, the Japanese style of animation popular with youth worldwide, manga, gaming, cosplay and the creative economy alongside a national chess tournament.

 The programme builds on last month’s National AI Hackathon which invited participants to design digital solutions for tourism, conservation and the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.

“These programmes align with Kenya’s broader Digital Transformation and Climate Resilience Agenda positioning artificial intelligence and creative technologies at the heart of inclusive national development,” noted Emily Mwikali, KICC Director of Operations.

“KICC is proud to play a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s future by empowering the youth. By opening our doors to diverse activities from technology to culture, gaming to mentorship we are not only fostering creativity and innovation but also reinforcing KICC’s place as a vibrant hub for diversity, growth and national progress,” explained Mwikali.

The programme is open to youth of all backgrounds with mentorship; training opportunities and prizes offered in partnership with stakeholders.

Officials argue the initiative signals a new approach in which culture and technology are treated not as pastimes but as engines of innovation and growth.