The Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA) was pleased to participate in Pwani Innovation Week 2025, convened by the Swahilipot Hub Foundation to advance innovation and entrepreneurship in the Coastal region. The event was held under the theme: “Pwani Re-Imagined: Youth Agency, Innovation & Sustainability of Coastal Economies.”

Delivering his keynote address, Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak, Principal Secretary for Science, Research, and Innovation, underscored the essential role of youth in shaping Kenya’s innovation-led economic transformation. He emphasized the need for intentional mentorship, stronger institutional linkages, and policies that support the translation of ideas into impactful solutions.

Speaking during the event, KeNIA CEO, Dr. Tonny K. Omwansa, reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to nurturing inclusive and sustainable innovation ecosystems across the country. He encouraged innovators to progress beyond ideation and develop scalable, investment-ready ventures, especially in DeepTech, Artificial Intelligence, and research-based innovation.

“Our local leadership must now dream bigger and act bolder, building on the foundations laid to create investment-ready ventures,” he noted.

Ahead of the main program, Dr. Omwansa joined The Breakfast Club Interview on Swahilipot FM, where he emphasized the importance of collaboration and ecosystem synergy as key drivers of innovation-led economic transformation.

At the exhibition booth, KeNIA highlighted two core initiatives: the Presidential Innovation Challenge Award (PIA) and the Innovation Academy. The Agency also showcased standout ventures from the PIA cohort including Becof Organic Chemicals and MashLav Foods Company Ltd.

Engagements throughout the week reinforced stronger collaboration to scale local innovations and renewed momentum for youth-driven innovation as a catalyst for economic transformation.