Overview
- Act: Science, Technology, and Innovation Act, 2013
- Formed: 2014
- CEO: Dr. Tonny K. Omwansa
- X (Twitter)
The Kenya National Innovation Agency (KENIA), established under the Science, Technology, and Innovation Act, 2013, began operations in 2014. Its mandate is to promote, coordinate, and regulate innovation in Kenya. KENIA supports the commercialization of research, fosters innovation-driven entrepreneurship, and collaborates with institutions to advance science and technology. The agency identifies and nurtures talent, facilitates funding for innovators, and creates policies that enhance the national innovation ecosystem. KENIA plays a critical role in driving Kenya’s transition to a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy.
CEO: Dr. Tonny K. Omwansa
Dr. Tonny K. Omwansa holds a Ph.D. in Information Systems and has over a decade of experience in innovation and entrepreneurship. He founded C4DLab at the University of Nairobi and led initiatives like Nairobi Innovation Week and fintech accelerators.
Board of Governors
Prof. Tom Migun Ogada
Chairman
Dr. Robert Kipkirui Mutai
Board Member
Sheena Raikundalia
Board Member
Dr. Robert Karanja
Board Member
Prof. Collins Odote Oloo
Board Member
Prof. Walter Oyawa
Board Member
Prof. Dickson Andala
Board Member
Jacob Njagih
Rep – PS, State Department of University Education and Research
Dr. Tonny K. Omwansa
Secretary to the Board
Functions
- Promote Innovation: Foster and support innovation activities across various sectors in Kenya.
- Coordinate Innovation Initiatives: Harmonize innovation efforts among stakeholders, including government, academia, and industry.
- Policy Development: Develop and implement policies to support the national innovation ecosystem.
- Commercialization of Research: Facilitate the transformation of research outputs into marketable products and services.
- Funding Support: Mobilize and provide financial resources for innovators and innovation projects.
- Talent Development: Identify, nurture, and support innovative talent, particularly among youth.
- Collaboration and Networking: Foster partnerships between academia, industry, and other innovation stakeholders.
- Capacity Building: Organize training and workshops to enhance innovation skills and knowledge.
- Recognition and Awards: Recognize and reward outstanding innovators and innovations.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Assess the impact of innovation policies and projects on national development.
Important Links
Address & Contacts
- NACOSTI Building, Off Waiyaki Way
- P.O. Box 22269-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
- info@innovationagency.go.ke
- +254-792 446 976