Machakos University Showcases Innovation Excellence at 8th Innovation Exhibition Week

Machakos University came alive with creativity and ingenuity as it hosted the 8th Innovation Exhibition Week from 12th to 13th March 2026, bringing together students, staff, and external exhibitors in a vibrant celebration of groundbreaking ideas and transformative solutions.

The event was officially opened by Prof. Richard Kimiti, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joyce J. Agalo. The opening ceremony was marked by captivating performances from the Machakos University Students Choir, setting an energetic and inspiring tone for the exhibition.

The ceremony was attended by members of the University Management Team, staff, and students, including Prof. Peter Kibet (representing Prof. James Muola, Ag. DVC RIL), Prof. David Mulwa, Registrar RIL, and Prof. Charles Ombuki, Director, Research, Innovation, Technology and Transfer (RITT), among others. The Chief Guest, Dr. Tonny Omwansa, CEO of the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA), was represented by Mr. Francis Okwara, who delivered a keynote address emphasizing the critical role of innovation in advancing sustainable development. Mr. Raymond Otieno from the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) was also in attendance.

The two-day exhibition featured over 55 innovations and 10 exhibitions addressing real-world challenges, demonstrating the creativity, resilience, and problem-solving capacity of young innovators and researchers. The event attracted participation from 10 institutions, including four technical institutions, five secondary schools, and Machakos University.

Among the standout innovations showcased were Soudom, Biashara Smart, Swiftly Remit, Smart Patrol, Fanaka Agro Smart, Scholarsphere, among others, each reflecting practical solutions aimed at improving lives and driving socio-economic transformation.

The exhibition concluded on a high note with an awards ceremony presided over by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs), Prof. James Muola, who presented awards to the winners on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor following adjudication by officials from KeNIA and KIPI. The awards recognized exceptional creativity, innovation, and dedication among the participants.

In her remarks, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Joyce J. Agalo commended all participants, partners, judges, and the organizing committee for their commitment to fostering a culture of innovation. She noted that the quality of innovations presented reflects a growing ecosystem of creativity and collaboration across institutions.

Machakos University continues to strengthen its commitment to research, innovation, and industry linkages, ensuring that ideas generated within the University and beyond are nurtured into impactful solutions that contribute to economic growth and social transformation.