Kenya’s economy could take a new direction by 2035 if ideas shared on Mwelekeo TV are put into action, where Soita Wafula outlined a plan to shift the country towards innovation, knowledge, and sustainable growth during a discussion with host Mercy Otieno.
Soita Wafula, a young leader from Shamoni village in Kakamega County, shared his personal journey and how it shaped his thinking. He spoke about repeating classes in school and how that experience pushed him to question the education system.
According to him, many young people work hard in school but still struggle to find jobs because what they learn does not match what employers need.
He also recalled losing a school leadership election and later starting groups that supported talent development and entrepreneurship among students.
At the center of his ideas is the need to build a knowledge-based economy. He explained that Kenya must move from mainly consuming goods to creating value through ideas, technology, and innovation. He introduced the concept of a Civilizational Flywheel, which connects education, innovation, production, and access to markets.
Through this system, he believes the country can create up to one million small innovation communities where people can learn skills, develop ideas, and sell products or services both locally and globally.
Education reform was strongly emphasized in the discussion. Soita suggested that schools should focus less on exams and more on practical skills, creativity, and character development. He highlighted the importance of values such as Ubuntu, which encourages a sense of shared responsibility and community. He also pointed out the role universities can play, sharing an example of how he once trained over 200 students at the University of Nairobi to become more financially independent through learning and small business activities.
Technology was also discussed as a key driver of future growth. Artificial intelligence, in particular, was mentioned as an area Kenya should invest in, especially within the education system.
He noted that countries like China are already doing this, and Kenya risks being left behind if it does not adapt. Alongside this, he called for stronger support systems for young entrepreneurs to help them start and grow businesses.
Leadership and governance were raised as critical factors. Soita stressed the need for systems that reduce corruption and waste while promoting long-term planning. He encouraged young people to take part in leadership and decision-making processes to help build sustainable structures for the future. He also spoke about the importance of unity, urging Kenyans to focus on shared goals rather than divisions.
The Ten Miles Ahead Vision 2035 presents a roadmap for preparing Kenya for changes in the global economy. It focuses on developing people, improving education, and using innovation to turn challenges into opportunities.
The discussion put a pause with a call for collaboration between universities, policymakers, and communities to help turn these ideas into reality.
If these ideas are implemented step by step, they could help create jobs, improve skills, and support long-term economic growth. The conversation shows that real change can begin with simple actions in education and innovation that grow over time.
