Eldoret Innovation Week Targets More Than 2,500 Youths
County and national government officials, development organisations and private-sector players are also expected to participate in the event.
More than 2,500 young people from the North Rift are expected to attend the fourth Eldoret City Innovation Week, an initiative aimed at expanding opportunities in technology, entrepreneurship and innovation. Photo: The Star Kenya.
By Robert Mutasi
More than 2,500 young people from the North Rift are expected to attend the fourth Eldoret City Innovation Week, an initiative aimed at expanding opportunities in technology, entrepreneurship and innovation.
The event will take place at Zion Mall and will bring together young innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, investors, students and representatives from universities and TVET institutions.
County and national government officials, development organisations and private-sector players are also expected to participate in the event.
Organising committee chairman Douglas Maina said the innovation week has developed into a platform where young people can present their ideas, gain practical knowledge and meet organisations that can support their ventures.
Maina spoke during a media breakfast held ahead of the official launch of this year’s event.
He said the initiative, which he founded, had grown over the years and continued to attract interest from different sectors across the region.
“The Innovation Week has grown steadily since its founding to become one of the region’s most anticipated platforms for enterprise, technology and youth development,” Maina said.
This year’s edition will run under the theme, “Innovating the North Rift: Driving Inclusive Growth Through Technology, Enterprise & Sustainability.”
The organisers said the theme reflects their focus on using innovation and technology to create economic opportunities while addressing sustainability challenges.
A key feature of this year’s programme will be the Youth Dome, which will provide a dedicated space for young people interested in the creative economy, enterprise and talent development.
The facility will host mentorship sessions, skills masterclasses, career guidance and enterprise clinics. It will also provide space for innovation pitches and talent showcases.
Maina said the organisers want the event to create stronger links between young people and potential mentors, investors and other partners.
The programme will cover several sectors, including technology, agriculture, healthcare, finance, education and public service.
Innovators and entrepreneurs will have an opportunity to exhibit their work, while investors and other participants will explore possible partnerships.
The organisers expect the event to culminate on October 9, with Secretary for ICT, E-Government and the Digital Economy Mary Kerema scheduled to attend as chief guest.
Maina called on businesses, institutions, development partners and members of the public to support the initiative and help reach more young people across the North Rift.
He said broader participation would give more young innovators an opportunity to access skills, networks and partnerships that can help them develop their ideas into viable enterprises.
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