
In November 2023, the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA) brought together visionaries, thought leaders, and innovators at the third edition of the Kenya Innovation Week (KIW). This landmark event not only hosted over 15 impactful summits but also marked the launch of Kenya's 10-Year Innovation Masterplan by H.E Dr. William Ruto. As we step into 2024, KeNIA is all set to turn these innovative aspirations into reality, armed with actionable resolutions and a one-year roadmap derived from the masterplan.
Dr. William Samoei Ruto, C.G.H. President of the Republic of Kenya (centre), Patricia Scotland, KC Secretary General of the Commonwealth, (on the left) Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, PSs Ismail Maalim and Eng. Peter Tum, Parliamentarians and KeNIA Board Chair and CEO during the launch of Kenya's 10-Year Innovation Masterplan in November 2023.
Actionable Resolutions:
Presidential Innovation Award (PIA) Expansion
Building on the successful pilot in 2023, KeNIA plans to scale the PIA to include categories such as the Youth Edition, Researchers, Universities, TVETs, and the Entrepreneurial University of the Year (EUY). This move aims to recognize and celebrate excellence across diverse sectors, inspiring a new wave of innovation.
Presidential Innovation Fellowship
To address digital transformation challenges in government and counties, young graduates will form multi-disciplinary groups. Through the Presidential Innovation Fellowship, they will gain hands-on experience, tackle practical issues, and infuse innovation into the public sector.
Kenya Startup Bill
A crucial policy instrument, the Kenya Startup Bill, will target challenges within the startup ecosystem, offering incentives and fostering growth. This strategic move is aimed at creating a more conducive environment for entrepreneurial ventures to thrive. KeNIA will contribute towards the creation of a startup act that will serve the ecosystem and targets to have it signed into law before mid-year 2024.
Comprehensive Masterplan Framework
KeNIA plans to develop a robust framework for publicizing, tracking, and monitoring the 10-Year Innovation Masterplan. By mobilizing partners and stakeholders, the aim is to create a collaborative approach based on strengths and interests, ensuring widespread participation.
Enhanced Funding for Innovation
Acknowledging the pivotal role of research and innovation, the Government of Kenya (GoK) is set to increase funding from 0.8% to 2% of the GDP. This financial boost will catalyse ground-breaking initiatives and secure Kenya's position as a hub of innovation.
Leading Innovation Course for Policymakers
KeNIA plans to introduce a course focusing on promoting an innovative mindset in government and service delivery. Policymakers will be equipped with modern tools like design thinking, behavioural science, and data-driven strategies, enhancing efficiency and excellence in public service.
Infrastructure Enhancement
A framework will be developed to streamline infrastructure for research and idea commercialisation. This includes the establishment of accessible Technology Transfer Offices in higher learning institutions, promoting knowledge transfer and industry collaboration.
Global Innovation Index Aspiration
KeNIA aims to position Kenya as a regional hub of innovation by targeting a spot within the top 50 on the Global Innovation Index within the next 10 years. Kenya currently ranks in the top 100 globally.
National IP Policy Completion
Recognizing the long-standing draft status of Kenya's Intellectual Property (IP) policy, KeNIA sets the ambitious goal of finalising and implementing the policy in 2024, providing a robust legal framework for innovation protection.
Entrepreneurial Institutions Maturity Framework
KeNIA aims to introduce a framework for self-evaluation, peer evaluation, and validation for higher learning institutions. This framework will ensure institutions strengthen commercialisation and entrepreneurial ecosystems, fostering a culture of innovation.
Emerging Technologies Institute and Action Lab
This initiative coordinated by the Thunderbird School of Global Management seeks to advance the uptake of emerging technologies. KeNIA envisions the establishment of an Emerging Technologies Institute and Action Lab, serving as a hub for experimentation and development in cutting-edge technologies.
As we embrace 2024, KeNIA's commitment to realizing the 10-Year Innovation Masterplan is evident. The agency's focus on inclusivity, policy refinement, financial empowerment, and infrastructural enhancement sets the stage for a transformative year. By keeping the public engaged through a live portal, KeNIA invites all stakeholders to be a part of Kenya's innovation journey. Together, let us shape a future where innovation fuels progress and prosperity for all. Explore the progress live at innovationmasterplan.go.ke.