The Vijana in Kilimobizz Youth Innovation Challenge is a collaborative effort between E4Impact and the World Food Programme (WFP) aimed at addressing pressing global challenges by harnessing the innovative potential of young individuals. The Challenge was launched on 15th May, 2023. Upon the close of applications closeout, three screening stages were conducted beginning with technical, thematic and innovation screenings. A regional pitch competition was held on 6th October 2023 and 13th October 2023 for Track 1(enterprises at proof of concept and prototyping stages) and Track 2 (enterprises that are post-revenue) respectively.
Following this, a National Physical Pitch Competition was organised on 27th October 2023 at E4Impact Entrepreneurship Center offices in Karen, and our co-founder Marceline Obuya was invited to join the judging panel. She played an important role in evaluating the 27 pitches, alongside other judges, and providing feedback to the participants.
Other judges included: Fridah Kibuko, WIDU Kenya, Rosemary Gatahi,Fatima Mohsin and Claudia Ahpoe from World Food Programme, Dennis Kimani, Absa Group, Ezra Yego, GSMA Innovation Fund, Virginia Waruingi, Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry, David Cheboryot, E4Impact and George Apaka, Mastercard Foundation.
“The innovators predominantly hailed from towns other than the usual big cities in Kenya, marking a departure from the norm. When given opportunities and support, the youth can devise solutions that address the issues faced by both communities and themselves.” Marceline remarked.
Catch some of the highlights of the event and the winners here: EMPIRE INNOVATION: INCREASING MARKET VALUE FOR CEREALS.
