The Presidential Innovation Awards winners yesterday received their checks at State House in Nairobi, marking a momentous occasion in Kenya’s drive towards youth empowerment and innovation.

Hosted by President William Ruto and attended by Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Ababu Namwamba, the ceremony celebrated the ingenuity of Kenya’s youth in tackling societal challenges through groundbreaking ideas.

James Nyamai from Makueni County emerged as the overall winner, clinching the prestigious Sh5 million prize for his innovative concept.

Elly Savatia from Kajiado County and Maryann Gichanga from Kiambu County secured the second and third positions, respectively, earning Sh3 million and Sh2 million as startup capital.

President Ruto reiterated his government’s unwavering commitment to nurturing and supporting the innovative endeavors of the youth, emphasizing the pivotal role of entrepreneurship in driving socio-economic progress.

He affirmed his dedication to identifying and fostering brilliant ideas that contribute to national development.

Echoing the President’s sentiments, CS Namwamba highlighted the ministry’s prioritization of the youth agenda, aligning with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

He underscored the significance of initiatives like the Presidential Innovation Awards and the Talanta Hela program in harnessing the talents and creativity of young Kenyans, ultimately putting money in their pockets under the hashtag #PesaMfukoni.

In addition to the top three winners, 30 youth from the 47 counties received Sh500,000 each for their innovative contributions, further advancing the ministry’s #PesaMfukoni objective.

The awards ceremony, spearheaded by Kenya Innovation Agency (KeNIA) witnessed the presence of dignitaries including Prof Tom Peter Miguna Ogada and CEO Tonny Omwansa, underscoring the collaborative effort towards fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in Kenya.