Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak, Principal Secretary, State Department for Science, Research and Innovation, delivers his address during the Kenya National Research Festival 2025 at Egerton University, Nakuru County.
August 2025, The Kenya National Research Festival 2025, hosted at Egerton University in Nakuru County, emerged as a landmark event celebrating research excellence while promoting collaboration and investment in sustainable agriculture and food security. Organized by the Kenya National Research Fund in partnership with Egerton University, the festival brought together a diverse group of stakeholders including researchers, policymakers, industry experts, students, and the public under the theme “Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security: Transformative Solutions for Resilience and Sustainability.”
Over the five days from 18th to 22nd August, participants showcased innovative research and technologies aimed at addressing food security challenges, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods. Interactive exhibitions and knowledge-sharing forums highlighted practical solutions to strengthen agricultural value chains and foster inclusive economic growth, reinforcing the event’s alignment with global and national development agendas such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 and 2, Africa’s Agenda 2063, Kenya Vision 2030, and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
The festival saw strong participation from government ministries, county agencies, research institutions, universities, the private sector, NGOs, development partners, and philanthropists. A particularly notable presence was from the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI), represented by key officials including Director General Dr. David Ngigi and other leading scientists who underscored NACOSTI’s dedication to advancing Kenya’s research and innovation landscape through high-quality standards and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Prof. Dickson Andala, CEO of the National Research Fund (NRF), delivers his speech during the Kenya National Research Festival 2025 at Egerton University, emphasizing the role of funding in driving research and innovation.
Key partners and sponsors contributing to the event’s success included the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), Cooperative University of Kenya, Konza Technopolis, Kenyatta University, Kenya National Innovation Agency (KENIA), UKAID, Kenya Accreditation Service (KENAS), the National Land Commission, TAGDev, and AAK-Grow. Their support reflected the festival’s collaborative spirit and commitment to driving transformative solutions for the nation’s development.
The Kenya National Research Festival 2025 successfully engaged the public through inclusive activities designed to inspire the next generation of innovators, strengthen networks, and advocate for increased research funding. The event reinforced research as a vital engine for national development and grassroots transformation, positioning Kenya to tackle critical challenges in food security and sustainable agriculture while fostering resilient and inclusive economic growth.
Kaimosi Friends University (KAFU) was recognized at the Kenya National Research Festival 2025 for its groundbreaking innovations, including biodegradable sanitary pads from leaves, clean fuel gel from fruit peelings, and mosquito-repellent candles from plant extracts, highlighting its commitment to sustainable solutions that transform communities.
Dr. Rael Adhiambo, a scientist from NACOSTI, also graced the festival and delivered an insightful speech on Smart Agricultural Science and Research. In her address, she emphasized the pivotal role of innovative agricultural technologies and data-driven solutions in enhancing productivity, promoting climate resilience, and ensuring sustainable food systems.
By championing science, technology, and innovation, the festival spotlighted Kenya’s growing capacity to develop transformative solutions that empower communities and secure a sustainable future. NACOSTI’s active leadership and participation highlighted its role as a catalyst for progress, driving efforts that align research initiatives with the country’s long-term development goals and inspiring emerging scientists and innovators to contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s sustainable and resilient future.