By Lilian Mutua

President William Ruto has called on African leaders to shift from exporting raw materials to prioritising value addition, manufacturing, and the full utilisation of the continent’s vast natural resources.

Speaking on 23rd April during the Africa We Build Summit 2026 in Nairobi, the President emphasised that Africa possesses abundant raw materials and must take deliberate steps to position these resources competitively within the global market.

He noted that resources such as oil, minerals, and agricultural produce should be strategically leveraged to harness African capital, stimulate industrial growth, and create sustainable economic transformation across the continent.

Ruto further observed that external markets have historically focused on securing Africa’s raw materials for their own benefit, often leaving the continent with limited value. He stressed that the time had come for African nations to adopt a unified and intentional approach that prioritises local processing, industrialisation, and long-term economic independence.

The Head of State underscored the importance of strengthening African financial institutions to support this transition, noting that access to capital remains a key pillar in driving industrial growth and infrastructure development.

“I want to inform the Africa Finance Corporation fraternity that as you set up your office in Nairobi, the Kenyan government is going to enhance its equity by 25 million dollars as a demonstration of the confidence we have in African financial institutions,” he said.

The remarks come amid growing calls for Africa to redefine its role in the global economy by moving up the value chain and reducing reliance on raw material exports, a shift leaders say is critical to unlocking jobs, boosting intra-African trade, and securing the continent’s economic future.