Nairobi, 6th June 2024
Nairobi County Digital Economy and Start-ups sub-sector, in collaboration with Africa’s Talking Limited, hosted an open hackathon theme being “Tourism and Culture Solutions” at the University of Nairobi.
The event attracted tech enthusiasts, developers, and innovators to design groundbreaking solutions aimed at enhancing developments in the tourism and culture sector.
County Executive for Innovation and Digital Economy, Mike Gumo, while addressing the participants, stressed the county’s commitment to transforming Governor Sakaja’s manifesto into reality through innovation “I have the utmost faith in the youths’ talent and vision. Now is your time to innovate and inspire the future of Nairobi tourism. ”
Dr. Anastasia Nyalita, County Executive for Inclusivity, Public Participation, and Customer Service, expressed her gratitude for the innovation and technology efforts centered around tourism and culture. “Sustainability is at the core of our tourism strategy. We must develop technologies that promote eco-friendly practices among tourists and businesses alike,” she stated.
Dr. Nyalita encouraged participants to think creatively and collaboratively, emphasizing that the challenges in the tourism sector are surmountable with innovative spirit and technological expertise.
County Chief Officer for Digital Economy and Start-ups, Sande Oyolo outlined the county’s vision for a future with vast economic opportunities as per H.E. the Governor’s manifesto.
Mr. Oyolo further referred participants to H.E Governor Sakaja’s manifesto which lays emphasis on creating hope and opportunities for Nairobians which should act as a rallying call for stakeholders to ensure that innovation and technology is aligned to solve local challenges faced by society, county government and corporates which will in turn create tangible economic opportunities for Kenya’s youthful entrepreneurs.
Clement Rapudo, Chief Officer for City Culture, Arts, and Tourism, highlighted the importance of challenging global systems and believing in one’s own potential.
Elizabeth Ndung’u, County Director for Digital Economy and Start-ups, stated, “Nairobi County has ten sectors, and the solutions we create here will enable these sectors to perform effectively and efficiently. The solutions arising from these hackathons will actualize H.E. the Governor’s manifesto.”
Eddie Butita, a prominent figure in the arts and digital space, remarked, “Digital space is the new space, also referred to as the Fourth Revolution. If you are not in that space, regardless of the industry, you will not be able to go into the next decade with meaningful profits.”
Graham Ingokho, SVP for growth at Africa’s Talking, urged participants to innovate with the knowledge that they can move value across the ecosystem and that the hackathon is part of a continuing track
The winning team, Team Young Baraza, presented a system that connects tourists with the local cultures according to their preferences. The second runner-up, Team Si Nairobi, developed a system for tourists to engage with local culture, street foods, and tourism sites. The third runner-up, Team Amazing and Blessed, presented a system for wildlife threat and detection.
Present was Deputy Director for Culture and Arts, Stella Kemunto, Deputy Director Tourism, Susan Mukuhi, among other Digital Economy and Startups sub sector officers.
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