Last week, Kabarak University proudly hosted the 4th Edition of the Central Rift Innovation Week (CRIW 2025) at the Main Campus from 15th to 19th September 2025, under the theme “Transforming Ideas into Impact: Innovating for a Better Tomorrow.” Organized by the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Outreach (RIO), the week-long event brought together academia, government, industry, entrepreneurs, startups, and development partners in a shared mission to catalyze innovation and drive impact.
The opening day on Monday focused on Green Innovations, AgriTech, and Inclusive Finance, with sessions led by partners such as Anza Village and Nakuru Box. Innovators showcased climate-smart solutions, while mentorship and workshops equipped young entrepreneurs with practical skills to grow their ideas. On Tuesday, the spotlight turned to the Creative Economy, Digital Media, and Youth Innovation, with Boresha SACCO, Skyline SACCO, and other partners highlighting cooperative financing models and supporting youth-led startups in the digital and creative sectors.
Wednesday, 17th September, marked the official opening of CRIW 2025, graced by Prof. Henry K. Kiplangat, Vice-Chancellor of Kabarak University, who officially launched the event. The day featured keynote addresses by Eng. John Tanui, CBS, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of ICT & Digital Economy, who spoke on Driving Kenya’s Digital Superhighway, and Mr. Allan Kosgey, Chairman of KIPI, who emphasized Intellectual Property as a Catalyst for Innovation. A high-level panel featuring experts from KIPPRA, KIPI, ICTA, and Kabarak University further explored the role of academia, policy, and partnerships in shaping Kenya’s innovation future. The day closed with a ministerial exhibition tour and the launch of the CRIW 2025 Policy Brief.
On Thursday, discussions centered on Entrepreneurship, FinTech, and Startup Scaling, with the Kabarak University TVET Institute leading conversations on how technical skills power entrepreneurship. Partners including EldoHub, Nakuru Box, Skyline SACCO, and SME Support Center facilitated interactive sessions and fireside chats that inspired young innovators to think boldly about scaling startups in the digital economy. The final day on Friday focused on HealthTech and Pharmaceutical Innovations, led by the International Cancer Institute (ICI) and the Kabarak School of Pharmacy. Innovators pitched solutions in diagnostics, cancer care, and health financing. The week concluded with the CRIW 2025 HealthTech Awards and Closing Ceremony, presided over by Prof. John Ochola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & Research), representing the Vice-Chancellor.
The success of CRIW 2025 was made possible through the invaluable support of our partners and sponsors, including ICTA, KIPPRA, KIPI, Anza Village, Boresha SACCO, Skyline SACCO, Nakuru Box, International Cancer Institute (ICI), Kabarak University TVET Institute, and the School of Pharmacy. Kabarak University extends heartfelt appreciation to all participants for their commitment to innovation and collaboration.
As CRIW 2025 concluded, it left behind a powerful message: innovation is the bridge between ideas and impact. Guided by our mission and through the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Outreach, Kabarak University remains dedicated to shaping solutions that will transform Kenya, Africa, and the world.
