The University of Nairobi (UoN) successfully concluded the 2026 Nairobi Innovation Week on 15 July 2026, bringing to a close a week-long celebration of innovation, research, technology and entrepreneurship that showcased the creativity and problem-solving potential of the University's students and researchers.

The closing ceremony was graced by the Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA), Dr. Tonny Omwansa and the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Eng. Ayub Gitau. Both lauded the University of Nairobi for creating a vibrant innovation ecosystem that nurtures young innovators and promotes the commercialisation of research and technology.

In his remarks, Dr Omwansa commended the ingenuity demonstrated by the participating students and encouraged them to continue developing practical, market-driven solutions that address pressing societal challenges. He emphasised the importance of innovation in driving Kenya's socio-economic transformation and urged young innovators to seize available opportunities within the national innovation ecosystem to scale their ideas into sustainable enterprises.

Throughout the week, students from various faculties and disciplines exhibited a diverse range of innovative projects and technologies, reflecting the University's commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, research excellence and entrepreneurship. The exhibitions highlighted solutions addressing challenges in areas such as healthcare, agriculture, environmental sustainability, digital technologies, manufacturing and social innovation.

Following a rigorous evaluation process conducted by a panel of judges, the most outstanding innovations were recognised during the closing ceremony. The top three innovation teams were awarded for their exceptional creativity, originality, feasibility and presentation, in recognition of their innovative solutions and potential for real-world impact.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Finance, Planning and Development, Prof. Josiah Aduda, congratulated the winning teams and all participants for their remarkable commitment, creativity and resilience throughout the competition.

Prof. Aduda noted that innovation remains a critical pillar in advancing the University's strategic agenda and reaffirmed the institution's commitment to creating an enabling environment where students and researchers can transform ideas into impactful solutions.

He encouraged the participants to continue refining their innovations, seek strategic partnerships and embrace entrepreneurship to commercialise their ideas for the benefit of society.

"The innovations showcased this week demonstrate the immense talent and potential that exists within our University. We encourage you to continue improving your ideas, collaborate with industry and other stakeholders and transform your innovations into sustainable ventures that create jobs and contribute to national development," said Prof. Aduda.

The closing ceremony marked the culmination of a successful Nairobi Innovation Week 2026, which brought together students, researchers, innovators, industry partners, government agencies, investors and development partners to exchange ideas, showcase cutting-edge innovations and strengthen collaboration within Kenya's innovation ecosystem.

As the curtains came down on this year's event, the University reaffirmed its commitment to promoting research, innovation and entrepreneurship as key drivers of sustainable development, economic growth and the creation of solutions that address local, regional and global challenges.