Ruku calls for Ubuntu-inspired leadership to transform Africa

Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku when he donated food staff,mattress and house hold item to victims floods in Mathere Area 4,on 23rd April 2025. [Edward Kiplimo,Standard]

Public Service Cabinet Secretary  Geoffrey Ruku has called on African youth to lead the continent’s transformation by embracing the African philosophy of Ubuntu.

Speaking on Wednesday, during the opening ceremony of the 2025 All Country Conference at the Kenya School of Government in Nairobi, Ruku emphasized the need for a youth-led and community-driven leadership to tackle Africa’s challenges.

Themed “Leading with Ubuntu: African Youth Transforming the Continent,” the five-day conference is hosted by Corps Africa and brings together over 1,000 young leaders, volunteers, policymakers, and global stakeholders.

He defined Ubuntu as the spirit of collectivism, empathy, and shared humanity, and urged young Africans to use it as a guiding principle in leadership.

“They are already leading in technology, social enterprise, advocacy, climate action, creative arts, and governance,” he said. “They are not just the future, they are the now.” Ruku added.

He defined Ubuntu as the spirit of collectivism, empathy, and shared humanity, and urged young Africans to use it as a guiding principle in leadership.

“True leadership is not about individual success but about collective growth. That is the spirit of Ubuntu,” Ruku stated.

Ruku encouraged young people to turn challenges such as poverty, tribalism, and unemployment into opportunities through innovation, entrepreneurship, and advocacy.

He pointed to artificial intelligence, blockchain, and renewable energy as key areas where youth can drive change.

Ruku also challenged conference delegates to develop educational policies and strategies that nurture Ubuntu-inspired leadership in schools, colleges, and communities.

“We must move from idealism to action. Ubuntu must become a strategic imperative for transforming Africa into an economic powerhouse,” he said.

As he concluded, Ruku issued a dual call to action for youth to mentor and uplift one another, and for older generations to invest in young people.

“It is our collective responsibility to create a better Africa. The success of one youth must be the success of all.” He said.

The conference continues through June 20, focusing on community-led development, youth innovation, and sustainable progress across the continent.