Nairobi, 24th August 2024
Innovate Nairobi Tech Week 2024, themed “Innovation for All: Crafting a Tech-Driven Future of Boundless Opportunity,” concluded successfully at the University of Nairobi’s Chandaria Centre for Performing Arts.
The three-day event was a vibrant hub of activity, featuring startup competitions, breakout sessions, and specialized tracks on critical areas such as Startups and Talent, Blockchain/Web 3, Cybersecurity, Circular Economy and Climate Change, AI, Health Tech, Women In Tech, Media and Creatives, Fintech, Legal Framework, and EdTech.
In his closing remarks, Chief Officer for Digital Economy and Startups, Mr. Sande Oyolo reaffirmed the county’s dedication to nurturing the innovation ecosystem through the Digital Economy and Startups Sub sector’s County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) 2023/2027. He emphasized that the Sub-sector’s strategy is outcome-driven, with specific programs designed to nurture and scale innovations. “As Nairobi County, we will create opportunities for all participants in this startup competition, regardless of their ranking,” he said.
Ms. Esther Kagunya, Director of ICT, e-Commerce, and Entrepreneurship from the State Department of ICT and Digital Economy, emphasized the pivotal role of innovation in driving Kenya’s economic growth. She highlighted the National Government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for tech startups, stating, “Expanding the Ministry’s structure was essential to aligning ourselves with the demands of supporting the Digital Economy.”
The startup competition saw Olivia Awuor from Eco Nasi emerge as the winner. Eco Nasi is a pioneering materials science company that upcycles pineapple pulp waste into premium vegan leather.
The second runner-up was Wilfred Chege, Founder and CEO of Zendawa, a digital platform that enables neighbourhood pharmacies to sell online.
Third place was secured by Tim Kinyanjui from Neural Labs Africa, a medical technology company using innovative technology to democratize access to diagnostic healthcare in Africa.
The rest of the participants all received certificates acknowledging their participation in the various track categories competitions.
Also present at the event was Hon. Gloria Orwoba, Nominated Senator for Women Affairs, Elizabeth Ndung’u, County Director for Digital Economy and Startups; Patrick Angasa, Director, Public Participation among other County Officers, Josephine Ndambuki, Chief Manager, Business Development and Innovation at Konza Technopolis, Roy Smith Mwita (Rufftone), among other key stakeholders in the tech ecosystem.
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