Varsity hosted the Sustainability Research and Innovation-Africa Satellite Event 2025
The University of Nairobi played host to the just concluded Sustainability Research and Innovation- Africa Satellite Event 2025 that saw over 200 Researchers and Innovators from the African continent gather to talk about African Science, Innovation and Sustainability.
The three-day event took place between June 4-6, 2025, with two-day pre-event meetings of Research consortia; Africa-Japan CORE Research Teams and the Future Earth African hub meetings.
The congress discussions focussed on pathways to Sustainable Solutions through five themes: - One health, Collaborative Decision-making, Innovative Tools, Holistic Solutions and African Science and Innovation for Transformation.
The Congress featured hybrid sessions through keynote speeches and discussions through plenary and break-out sessions.
National Research Fund-Kenya, National Research Foundation- South Africa, Future Earth Africa Hub and East Africa node, Maseno University, Technical University of Kenya, were the other partner organizations that planned and co-hosted the congress with the University of Nairobi.
The UoN Vice-Chancellor, whose speech was read by the DVC Finance, Planning and Development, Prof. Jackson Maalu underscored the importance and the central role of the University of Nairobi hosting early career researchers and knowledge creation, he noted, ‘As we gather under the shared goal of forging pathways to sustainability, I am encouraged by the richness of this programme—bringing together cutting-edge science, policy engagement, innovation, and community insight. From artificial intelligence and climate resilience to biodiversity and water solutions, this forum offers a rare and necessary space to reflect, share, and co-create knowledge that is relevant and responsive to the needs of our people.
The presence of early-career researchers, established academics, policy experts, civil society actors, and youth leaders reminds us of our responsibility as institutions of higher learning—not only to generate knowledge but to nurture the next generation of sustainability champions.’
Prof. Disckson Andala, CEO, NRF Kenya, speaking at the Opening Ceremony of the congress noted, ‘we stand not just as observers of global progress but as contributors and catalysts in shaping a future that is not only sustainable but distinctly African in character and excellence. Africa is home to some of the world’s youngest, most dynamic, and most resilient minds. It is essential to acknowledge that this conference involves Early Career Researchers (ECRs). As we discuss environmental sustainability, we shouldn’t forget about the future generations who will build upon our work. We are a continent rich not only in natural resources but also in creativity, ingenuity, and an unyielding desire to solve our challenges, from climate change and health crises to food and nutrition security, and digital transformation. But let us be clear: research is not a luxury. Innovation is not a distant dream. They are the bedrock of sustainable development, economic independence, and human progress.’
CEO, National Research Fund-South Africa, Dr. Prudence Makhura, urged the Innovators and researchers to start strategically collaborating because funders are now looking at the portfolios as opposed to individual Innovations, ‘African Research Funders have started changing their KPIs, they are looking at the portfolios in terms of collaborations.’
During the Conference, there were poster presentations and the winner was announced at a Gala dinner that was held on Thursday night, 5th June 2025 at the Nairobi Safari Park.
Linet Achieng Ombewa from the Department of Chemistry, School of Physical and Biological Sciences, Maseno University and Dr. Dr. Enahoro Kennedy Owowenu, Institute for Water Research, Rhodes University, South Africa were awarded and earned a scholarship to the SRI 2026. Linet pitched on the theme African Science on Innovation and Sustainability with her groundbreaking research titled,’ Biochar for Sustainable Environmental Remediation- a revolutionary approach to tackling environmental challenges,’ While Dr. Enahoro presented on, ‘Tracking Microplastic Pollution, Contaminant Transfer, and Biocolonization in African Urban Rivers: A Sustainability Perspective’
The Africa Satellite Event provided an opportunity to engage on African sustainability issues, opportunities, and solutions. It offered a platform for engagement and collaboration, creating opportunities for early-career researchers, established researchers, research managers, policymakers, and industry experts to share their ideas, relevant knowledge, and information. This will help strengthen the next generation of researchers in Africa.
