The government of Kenya is embedding commercialization and entrepreneurship at the core of higher education. In a strategic move led by the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA), 25 Vice Chancellors and Deputy Vice Chancellors recently gathered in Nairobi for the Entrepreneurial Leaders’ Training Program (ELTP), part of the broader Entrepreneurial Institutions Maturity Framework (EIMF).
Dr. Tonny Omwansa, CEO of KeNIA, highlighted the role of universities as “vital innovation engines” and emphasized the need for institutional reforms that prioritize innovation in governance and curriculum. Despite Kenya ranking among Africa’s top three in research output, less than 10% of research is commercialized an issue the ELTP aims to address by equipping university leaders to establish Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs), allocate commercialization funding, and foster an entrepreneurial mindset.
Inclusivity in innovation
The Ministry of Education, represented by Prof. Abdulrazak Shaukat, Principal Secretary for Science, Research and Innovation, affirmed strong government backing. He outlined ongoing efforts such as increased R&D investment, the launch of national think tanks, and the promotion of science diplomacy to ensure inclusivity in innovation.
The event also showcased tangible progress: Crackfox, supported by the University of Embu, secured $890,000 in international funding with the University of Michigan, the Presidential Innovation Fund awarded KES 10 million to top university startups like Afyalishe, KCA University filed 11 patents following capacity-building efforts by KeNIA and Maasai Mara University established a TTO and began commercializing research in bioenergy and agriculture.
Dr. Omwansa noted a growing momentum among academic leaders who are increasingly taking charge as innovation champions. With continued government support and strategic leadership from universities, Kenya is positioning itself to harness academic research for job creation, industrial growth, and regional leadership in innovation.