UK (Commonwealth Union)_ The highly anticipated Kenya Innovation Week 2023, Commonwealth Edition, will take place in Nairobi from November 27 to December 1, 2023. This year’s event marks a significant collaboration with the Commonwealth Secretariat, bringing together leaders, government officials, business and academic representatives, and a delegation led by the Commonwealth Secretary General, the Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland KC. Themed ‘Innovating to Unlock Our Common Wealth,’ the Commonwealth Edition of Kenya Innovation Week aims to explore the key actors, linkages, growth potential, challenges, and opportunities within the Commonwealth innovation system. The week will also witness the launch of Kenya’s 10-year Innovation Masterplan.
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In a statement, the President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. Hon. William Ruto, expressed enthusiasm for the week’s activities, emphasizing that it would not only spotlight Kenya’s innovations but also highlight the Commonwealth’s innovation ecosystem. President Ruto stated, “The event will not only shed light on the brilliant innovations coming out of Kenya but will also highlight the Commonwealth innovation system’s key actors and their linkages, potential for growth, challenges, and existing opportunities for innovators.” He added, “I am especially delighted to welcome Commonwealth countries to Kenya, to join us as we advance the potential that exists to facilitate our collective achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through innovation.”
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One of the major events of the week will be the announcement of the winners of the Secretary-General’s Innovation for Sustainable Development Awards. All winners will be presented with a trophy, a certificate, and a cash prize of £3,000, along with ongoing support for their work and the opportunity to participate in high-level forums. Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland KC, emphasized the significance of innovation for the development of the Commonwealth, stating, “Investment in innovation will result in a more prosperous, more equitable, and more resilient society for all.” She added that Africa must maintain or accelerate its momentum in innovation, acknowledging the progress, talent, and innovation evident across the continent.
Opportunities for citizens from Commonwealth countries extend to the Commonwealth Africa Cyber Fellowship program, which is currently accepting applications until December 10, 2023. The fellowship aims to facilitate knowledge exchange among cybersecurity experts, promote partnerships, and influence the policy work of the Commonwealth Secretariat. The five-day Kenya Innovation Week will also feature thematic meetings, panel discussions, keynote speeches, fireside chats, workshops, and networking events.
Additionally, exhibitions from various participating organizations, groups, and countries will be showcased throughout the event. Commonwealth events will include a Ministerial Roundtable Discussion on Science, Technology, and Innovation, along with the involvement of the Commonwealth Youth Council and the Commonwealth Businesswomen’s Network. Innovation, positioned as a platform for development, remains a focal point across all teams within the Commonwealth Secretariat, with active pursuits of beneficial collaborations with partner organizations. Kenya Innovation Week 2023 promises to be a pivotal gathering, fostering collaboration and innovation for a sustainable and prosperous future.
