United States embassy in Nairobi in partnership with the Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) have launched the first ever American Spaces Bus in Kenya in order to accord users, especially the youth, an opportunity to build skills, access opportunities and shape their future.

The American Spaces Bus brings US programmes directly to towns, campuses and counties in Kenya.

Speaking during the launch, which took place in a youth event by City Lighters Church in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, Acting US Ambassador to Kenya Carla Benini, underlined the importance of the programme to empower the youth by accessing US-funded events for students eying American higher education, workshops in English, entrepreneurship, AI, digital tools and career guidance.

She was accompanied by Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) Acting Director Betty Kalugho. The innovation also hosts events where Kenyans can connect through talks with US experts, civic discussions, and forums that open doors and expand networks, trusted US resources including books, internet, databases, and current, fact-based information about the United States.

“They will be able to explore and learn about our cultural programmes through film screenings, exhibitions, performances and conversations that highlight American life and values while at the same time learning about US exchange programs and connect with alumni already making an impact,” she noted.

The chargé d’affaires described the American Spaces Bus as ‘tech on wheels’, noting it is a key way to reach out to a broader Kenyan population bearing in mind that the embassy is in Nairobi and they need to reach out to all Kenyans.

“Everything is free, we have books, a library with both Kenya and US materials, laptops, Starlink supported internet, 3D printers. This is a great opportunity for supporting Kenyan youth innovators and social media influencers to build those connections between Kenya and America making them even stronger,” explained the chargé d’affaires.

She noted that as they continue to attract youth to use the opportunity, the mission wants to support their dreams in terms of what they want to do in tech, social media and other opportunities for them to create their innovations.

The American Spaces Bus, powered by the US Embassy and the Kenya National Library Service (KNLS), brings US programmes directly to towns, campuses, and counties across Kenya.

On-boarded in the bus include free Starlink Wi-Fi and American laptops, A 3D printer and digital maker tools, US books, speakers and learning materials from the United States, a podcast and video studio for content creation and storytelling.

The youth were encouraged to stay connected by following the US embassy on social media for updates on programmes, events and American Spaces outreach in Kenya.

Kenyan youth demonstrated access to free US programmes  such as  the digital maker tools, U.S. books, and learning materials during the launch of the first ever American Spaces Bus in Kenya in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Ekuwam Sylvester