National Intelligence Research University AI Hackathon Winners Crowned as Kenya’s Innovation Drive Gains Momentum

-
Kenya has crowned winners of the 2025 National AI Hackathon, showcasing the country’s growing capacity to develop homegrown technology solutions addressing healthcare, security, and economic challenges.

Top honours went to Caroline Gakii, Daniel Maitethia, and Ezekiel Otieno from Meru University of Science and Technology, who won KSh 2 million for developing a low-cost AI-powered digital microscope aimed at improving access to cancer and malaria diagnosis.

Joshua Radula of Strathmore University finished second with a tool that translates speech and text into sign language, while Kelvin Mulama placed third with a system designed to detect financial fraud and strengthen financial integrity.

The competition attracted over 5,600 registrations and more than 2,500 submissions, reflecting the rapid growth of Kenya’s innovation ecosystem.

NIRU Vice Chancellor James Kibon said the initiative is focused on delivering practical impact. “What we are building is not just a competition, but a pipeline of deployable AI solutions,” he said. 

“The quality of innovations we have seen demonstrates Kenya’s capacity to address national priorities.”

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen emphasized the transformative role of artificial intelligence. 

“Artificial Intelligence is transforming how nations develop their economies, deliver public services, and secure the future,” he said, adding that innovation will be key to driving Kenya’s growth.

Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga also praised the initiative, noting its broader significance. 

“This initiative demonstrates the power of innovation in shaping the future of our nation. By investing in Artificial Intelligence, we are not only preparing for tomorrow but actively building it,” he said.

Officials said the hackathon is helping bridge the gap between talent and industry, with many of the showcased solutions expected to be scaled into real-world applications across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, cybersecurity, and public service delivery.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

People's Liberation Party Endorses Martha Karua for 2027 Presidential Bid, Vows to Reclaim Kenya’s Republic

-
Image
By Steve El Sabai The People's Liberation Party (PLP) has formally positioned itself for the 2027 General Elections by unanimously endorsing its Party Leader, Hon. Martha Karua, SC, as its presidential candidate. The historic announcement was made during a Special National Delegates Conference held on September 26, 2025, at Ufungamano House in Nairobi. Hon. Karua framed her declaration not merely as a candidacy announcement but as a transformative commitment to Kenya’s future. She described the gathering as "a declaration, a promise, and a turning point in our nation's journey toward justice, unity, and dignity." Sharply criticizing the current administration, Karua cited a "betrayal of trust, our institutions, and the people's hope." She accused the incumbents of prioritizing "corruption over integrity, impunity over justice, and propaganda over service," underscoring that "Kenyans are hurting, and Kenyans deserve better....
Read more

Incoming ODM Nairobi Chairlady Rosemary Okuta Promises to Transform Nairobi

-
Image
NAIROBI, Kenya – Incoming ODM Nairobi Chairlady Rosemary Okuta has pledged to deliver transformative leadership in the capital, vowing to place the interests of ordinary citizens at the heart of her agenda. Okuta said her leadership will focus on strengthening grassroots democracy within ODM, promoting women and youth representation, and ensuring fairness in party nominations ahead of the 2027 General Election. She emphasized that Nairobi deserves leaders who are accountable and people-centered, adding that under her stewardship ODM will reclaim its vibrancy in the city. “Our mission is to transform Nairobi, empower communities, and ensure every resident feels the impact of ODM leadership in their daily lives,” Okuta said. She also promised to champion initiatives that address unemployment, urban poverty, and social inclusion while working closely with party members to restore trust and unity within the ODM family. Her statement comes at a time when Nairobi politics is heat...
Read more

Nairobi Central MCA John Mwaniki Champions CBD Transformation to Attract Global Investors

-
Image
Nairobi Central MCA John Mwaniki has called on building owners within the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) to take bold steps in elevating the city’s status by repainting their premises, installing Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) systems, and adopting aesthetically pleasing decorations and signage.  These measures, he asserts, are vital in transforming Nairobi into a clean, orderly, and visually appealing world-class city that attracts investors and tourists alike. In support of this initiative, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has endorsed the MCA's proposals, aligning them with his broader vision for a more secure, vibrant, and investor-friendly capital. "The time to make Nairobi shine on the global stage is now," said MCA Mwaniki. "I urge building owners to ensure their properties are repainted, well-decorated, and that all names and signage are uniform and appealing. This will not only enhance the city's image but also foster pride among re...
Read more