Report faults Kenya's skewed allocation of ICT resources

KOTDA Chief Executive John Tanui, now PS in the State Dept for ICT and Digital Economy. [File, Standard]

"The relevance of a robust innovation ecosystem to a country's economy cannot be gainsaid. A vibrant and enabling innovation ecosystem facilitates the emergence and growth of businesses and is evidenced by the presence and fluidity of ideas and solutions," said Ngororano at the report's launch in Nairobi.

KOTDA Chief Executive John Tanui, now Principal Secretary in the State Dept for ICT and Digital Economy said the report provides a timely data-driven approach that calls for increased connectivity and collaboration of relevant stakeholders in driving innovation to transform the Kenyan economy.

"We have noted several challenges affecting the innovation ecosystem among them commercialisation of innovations, low investment in technology, low number of people in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), uncoordinated innovation pipeline, human resource development challenges and limited government support."

UNDP Head of Exploration Caroline Kiarie said promoting women innovators and creating innovations that meet their needs will accelerate Kenya's innovation ecosystem.

"We need to work together to create an environment that allows the youth and women to thrive. Women empowerment in the innovation space should not be a cliche. Data has proven that they face several barriers that they must overcome to succeed in business," said Ms Kiarie.