EU, Safaricom Reiterate Push for Economy Through Youth-Led Digital Radio Platform

By Mbungu Harrison

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

The European Union Ambassador to Kenya, Henriette Geiger, has reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to advancing the blue economy through youth-driven digital innovation.

Speaking during a visit to the Blue Hub in Kisauni, Mombasa, on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Ms Geiger lauded the role of Blue Radio in empowering young people through media, training, and community engagement.

“This digital radio platform demonstrates how young people can drive the blue economy by sharing knowledge, creating opportunities, and amplifying local voices,” she said.

The ambassador pledged to bring onboard more partners to strengthen the support to digital initiatives undertaken by the establishment.

She was also in the company of Media Council of Kenya led by regional coordinator Maureen Mudi.

“The European Union is proud to support initiatives that place youth at the centre of sustainable development and community transformation,” she said.

Addressing the Blue Radio team and a host of visitors at their facility, MS Geiger said she was particularly impressed by the creativity and energy exhibited by the youth at the hub.

“This is exactly what we love to see young people elevating their communities and creating meaningful impact within the societies closest to them. We encourage the team to continue strengthening their work in advancing the blue economy through innovation and digital storytelling,” she said.

The ambassador’s visit coincided with a Sh500,000 donation from Safaricom Business as part of the Shangwe @25 business promotion delivered by Ag. chief enterprise and public sector business officer Frankline Okata.

Speaking at the event, Mr Okata highlighted Safaricom business commitment to fostering platforms that merge technology with socio-economic development.

“We believe that digital platforms like Blue Radio are crucial in connecting communities, creating jobs, and opening up opportunities in the blue economy,” he said adding, “Supporting youth initiatives is at the heart of our mission. By partnering with innovative community-led platforms, we are not only enabling skills development but also nurturing the next generation of leaders and change makers.”

Blue Radio chief executive officer Gilbert Were welcomed both the EU support and the Safaricom business donation noting that the resources would help expand the station’s outreach and mentorship programmes.

“This support comes at a critical time as we scale up our digital broadcasting and youth mentorship programmes around the coastal blue economy,” he said adding, “Our goal is to ensure young people not only tell their stories but also actively participate in economic opportunities linked to ocean resources.”

He further emphasized the importance of collaborations with development agencies and private sector partners.

“With continued collaboration, we can transform more young lives and position community media as a driver of economic growth,” he added.

The visit was described as deeply inspiring by both the EU ambassador and Safaricom team who noted the vibrancy of the youth and the transformative impact of Blue Radio’s programmes.

From creative content production to skills training and digital literacy, the hub continues to provide a platform for young people to engage meaningfully with their communities while contributing to Kenya’s broader economic development.