Murkomen applauds youth empowerment at Kenya Innovation Week

By Robert Mutasi

Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the youth are Kenya's most valuable resource in driving innovation and entrepreneurship, placing the country at the heart of venture capitalism in Africa.

The CS spoke on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at the 4th Kenya Innovation Week – Africa Edition at the Edge Convention Centre in Nairobi, praising the country's thriving innovation ecosystem and its immense contribution to economic growth.

"The youth are the bedrock of our vibrant innovation ecosystem, making Kenya the leading destination for venture capitalism," Murkomen said, underlining the importance of creative solutions in addressing unemployment and fostering a culture of self-reliance.

Murkomen joined President William Ruto, innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, and key stakeholders at the annual convention organized by the Kenya National Innovation Agency.

The event aims to identify and support innovations with the potential for commercialization, stimulating Kenya's economic development and cementing its status as the startup capital of Africa.

The present year's edition features varied exhibitions and presentations from some of the country's brightest minds.

Murkomen hailed organizers and innovators for their efforts and pointed out that the forum provided an important platform for idea exchange and showcase of cutting-edge solutions.

He also announced that the government is at an advanced stage of developing a national Intellectual Property policy to ensure innovators get fair returns for their creations.

"To ensure innovators and creators get reasonable returns from their innovation and solidify our position as the leading startup destination in Africa, we are finalizing the national Intellectual Property policy," Murkomen said.

The IP policy is likely to protect intellectual property rights while encouraging more investments in the country's innovation space.

It is part of the government's broad strategy to address unemployment and nurture an environment where self-employment and creativity thrive.

Murkomen's sentiments reflect the government's commitment to supporting young talent and fostering an ecosystem that attracts venture capital and global partnerships.

Through such initiatives as Kenya Innovation Week, the administration seeks to create avenues for economic growth, positioning Kenya as a leader in technological advancement on the continent.

Kenya Innovation Week has grown into one of the leading events, attracting participants from across Africa and beyond.

It underpins Kenya's commitment to establishing a sustainable competitive innovation-driven economy.

In his words, Murkomen aptly pointed out, "This forum energizes our innovation ecosystem, offers a beacon of hope for our youth, and opens up pathways to prosperity for our nation."