President William Ruto has announced the construction of a new Ksh4.5 billion Science and Engineering Complex at University of Nairobi, in a major project being developed jointly by the Kenyan and French governments.
The modern facility will be built at the university’s Chiromo Campus and is expected to strengthen research, innovation and technology training in Kenya and across the region.
President Ruto announced on Monday during the Africa Forward Summit held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, who is on his second State visit to Kenya.
According to the President, this project is intended to prepare young Kenyans for a rapidly evolving global economy which relies on innovations in science and technology.
“We are working with the youth in order to ensure that they keep up with the fast-changing technologies,” said Ruto.
“Through this plan, we are teaming up with France in establishing the Science and Engineering Complex of the University of Nairobi. This facility will become a leading center of innovation for both Kenya and the entire region,” the president added.
This project will be funded using grants provided by the French Development Agency in collaboration with the Government of Kenya.
Upon completion, the complex will serve as a center of advanced research and educational programs in such spheres as Artificial Intelligence, data analysis, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, food safety, healthcare, manufacturing industries and urban development.
In addition, this facility will allow to address numerous challenges facing Kenya and the rest of Africa through the collaboration of scientists, students and representatives of the business community.
The plan for the complex has been discussed over several years. First, the French Development Agency suggested to invite proposals for innovative facilities related to science and technology in 2015.
Momentum later picked up in 2019 during President Macron’s first official visit to Kenya under former President Uhuru Kenyatta. The two countries then signed a Letter of Intent committing to the project.
Further financial and legal agreements followed in 2021 and 2022, involving the university, the Ministry of Education and the National Treasury.
After years of technical studies and planning, the architectural design contract was finally awarded in December 2025 to Scope Design Systems through an international competition.
With the latest agreement now formally signed during the Africa Forward Summit, the project has officially moved from planning to implementation.
President Ruto said the investment is part of a broader effort to empower young people and position Kenya as a leader in innovation and research on the continent.
“Our youth are the present and the future, and we are committed to laying the supportive foundation they need to transform their ideas into solutions,” he said.
