The 10^th Circular Economy Conference held on 19^th and 20^th November 2025 at the Nairobi Street Kitchen was more than an annual gathering; it was a moment of reflection, renewal, and bold reimagining for Kenya’s circular economy movement. Designed as a zero-waste event, attendees experienced sustainability first-hand: vegan meals, refillable water stations, reusable notebooks, and an encouragement to carry personal pens and bottles. It set the tone for a conference that demonstrated what a circular future can look like in practice. 

Circular Economy: Kenya’s Next Big Growth Frontier  

In her opening remarks, Anja Berreta the head of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Regional Programme Economy Africa, who are an international partner reinforcing multi-stakeholder dialogue on circular economy strategy and scaling of circular practices, emphasised that shifting from a linear to a circular model is not only an environmental necessity but an economic opportunity. She highlighted key areas where Kenya stands to gain: reducing post-harvest losses in agriculture, reusing construction materials, and scaling e-waste recycling hubs. She noted that circularity could contribute an estimated 2–3% to Kenya’s GDP while creating thousands of green jobs. 

Akshay Shah the Chair of the Kenya Plastics Pact (KPP) Steering Committee, emphasised that Kenya could position itself as a global hub for green manufacturing by harnessing renewable energy and converting local waste into valuable raw materials. Opportunities lie in repair, upcycling, reuse, repurposing, and recycling models; ecotourism grounded in clean, sustainable living, and using wastelands for productive green investments. Additionally, Dr Festus Ngeno , the Principal Secretary (PS) for Environment and Climate Change in the Republic of Kenya observed, circularity can significantly reduce reliance on imports while strengthening collaboration with development partners and unlocking climate benefits, which aligns strongly with the outcomes and ambitions reaffirmed at the Conference of Parties (COP) 30. 

Looking Back to Shape the Future 

Kenya has had a gradual but notable journey in attempting to shift its production models from the conventional ‘take-make-dispose’ to more circular models that enable re-using, recycling or even upcycling of waste. Carole Kariuki, CEO of Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), reflected on the paradox of ‘looking back to the future’, which was a call to revisit what Kenya has not yet done to achieve a more sustainable society. She highlighted the long-standing relationship between the private sector and National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), while acknowledging current concerns around the newly implemented Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework under the Sustainable Waste Management Act 2022 which states that ‘ every producer shall bear extended producer responsibility to reduce pollution and environmental impacts of the products they introduce into the Kenyan market and waste arising therefrom’. 

Although EPR aims to reduce pollution and ensure producers take responsibility for the waste generated by the products they place on the market, businesses have raised concerns, such as: 

• Increased compliance and waste-management costs 

• Unclear regulations and implementation systems 

• Operational Challenges for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) 

• Risks of penalties and disruptions for non-compliance 

• Competitiveness concerns for importers 

Despite these challenges, Carole stressed that circular production strengthens Kenya’s private-sector competitiveness both locally and globally.  In addition, Ps Festus Ng’eno noted that since 60% of Kenya’s waste is poorly managed, embracing reuse, repair, recycling, and upcycling is essential for meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Ubuntu: The Heartbeat of a Circular Africa 

Ubuntu, the African philosophy interpreted as ‘I am because we are’, emerged as a powerful thread connecting circularity to African identity. This philosophy aligns deeply with human-centred design, which prioritises people’s values, lived experiences, and real community needs. 

When circular innovation is rooted in Ubuntu, solutions such as repair networks, community recycling hubs, waste-reduction systems, and sustainable product redesign become more inclusive, culturally grounded, and socially equitable. 

In this spirit, Kamilla Heden, a circular economy sector counsellor at the embassy of Denmark in Kenya, highlighted the crucial yet often overlooked role of waste pickers, who face challenges such as low pay, unsafe working conditions, and competition from large recyclers. The conference called for structured dialogue to ensure waste pickers, who are key actors in Kenya’s recycling ecosystem, are not left behind.  

As the conference neared closure, two key announcements that shifted the landscape and will influence national policy were made;  

• The Launch of the ‘ No single-use Plastics’ campaign 

A major highlight was the national call to reduce single-use plastics across hotels, restaurants, cafes, conferences, and public events. The announcement symbolised a bold shift from intention to implementation, sparking applause across the room. 

• Unveiling of the Toolkit on Advancing Circularity in the Waste and Textile sector in Kenya 

A new, business-friendly toolkit was unveiled to support the textile and apparel industry in adopting circular models. It simplifies circularity into practical steps, templates, case studies, and investment pathways, positioning it as a game changer for green innovation. 

Display of Innovation, Ingenuity, and African Excellence 

The exhibition floor buzzed with creativity, showcasing upcycled fashion, biodegradable packaging, plastic-derived raw materials, clean energy models, and community recycling hubs. It was the perfect demonstration that circularity is not a distant concept, but it is alive, practical, and already reshaping livelihoods. 

Beyond showcasing innovation, the conference also highlighted initiatives designed to support the transition to circular production systems. Notably, the Circular Retrofitting for Sustainable Industrialization (Geckocir) project which aims to promote circularity within food and beverage processing companies, would be an enabler of this transition. The project supports practical approaches through which companies can adopt more circular practices such as upcycling of food processing waste into higher value products, thereby creating additional revenue streams from materials that would otherwise be discarded. 

In conclusion, the 10th edition of the circular economy conference in Kenya will be remembered because it was people-centred, blended African philosophy with global innovation, showcased real-world solutions, announced commitments that will shape national policy, placed community and humanity at the heart of circularity, and demonstrated that sustainability is a shared journey. As the curtains closed, one truth was undeniable: Africa’s circular future will be defined not by isolated efforts, but by a society grounded in Ubuntu, designing a future in which everyone can thrive together. 

About the GeckoCIR) Project

The Circular Retrofitting for Sustainable Industrialization (GeckoCIR) Project, funded by the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA), advances Kenya’s transition toward a near zero-waste society by shifting food waste management from downcycling to high-value upcycling. Led by the University of Copenhagen in partnership with Rodee ApS, JKUAT, the University of Nairobi, the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), and the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), GeckoCIR pilots the Rodee technology to assess the viability of circular retrofitting within and between manufacturing firms. The project strengthens research and industrial capacity to transform food side streams into safe, nutritious food and other high-value products, promotes data-driven circular economy solutions, and defines scalable circular models for Kenyan industries—laying a strong foundation for national and county circular economy strategies while showcasing Africa’s leapfrogging potential through circular innovation.

Click here to visit the webpage of the project

Partners

Related resources:

Blog: From Waste to Resource: Circular Economy as a Solution for Sustainable Waste Management  

As part of the ACES/SPOKE program’s ongoing support to strengthen cold-chain ecosystems and improve postharvest management, this brochure provides farmers and community groups with practical, easy-to-use guidance on common nutrient deficiencies, pests, and diseases affecting key horticultural crops in Kenya.

Developed in partnership with the Clean Cooling Network and produced with insights from the Lari Horticultural Farmers’ Cooperative Society (LHFCSL), the resource equips farmers with:

• Clear identification signs for nutrient deficiencies
• Visual guides for common pests and diseases
• Practical, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) solutions
• Recommended corrective actions to reduce pre-harvest losses
• Maintain high-quality produce while also achieving higher yields

This brochure supports the broader goals of the ACES/SPOKE model—helping communities build stronger, climate-resilient production systems alongside cold-chain integration. By improving crop health, farmers can deliver higher-quality produce to markets, reduce spoilage, and maximize the benefits of cold storage and aggregation.

We invite farmers, partners, and practitioners to download and use this guide as a key resource in strengthening horticultural production across the SPOKE communities and beyond.

As climate risks intensify across the Global South, the need for innovative, scalable, and locally relevant solutions has never been greater. Recognizing this urgency, the ACTS Pathways Academy (APA) is proud to announce the APA Seasonal School 2026, a 7-day immersive learning experience themed Artificial Intelligence for Climate Action. The program will take place from 23–30 August 2026 at the serene Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa in Kenya.

Building on the African Centre for Technology Studies’ long-standing leadership in science, technology, and innovation, the Seasonal School brings together researchers, innovators, policymakers, students, and entrepreneurs committed to shaping a more climate-resilient future.

Why AI for Climate Action?

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming how societies understand, predict, and respond to climate challenges. From early warning systems and climate-smart agriculture to low-carbon energy transitions, AI offers powerful tools for enhancing resilience and reducing vulnerability. The APA Seasonal School aims to equip participants with the practical skills and ethical grounding needed to apply these technologies effectively and responsibly.

What Participants Can Expect

The program is designed as an interactive, hands-on experience that goes far beyond theory. Participants will engage in:

• Expert-led lectures exploring the latest debates and innovations in AI
• Case studies and group discussions to co-create real solutions
• Panel dialogues with thought leaders shaping the AI and climate agenda
• A vibrant Marketplace for showcasing ideas and catalyzing collaboration
• Immersive excursions to coastal communities to contextualize learning
• Networking events that foster long-term partnerships across regions

This unique blend of structured learning, practical application, and cross-sector engagement ensures that participants leave with both the skills and confidence to implement AI-driven solutions in their own institutions and communities.

Beyond the Classroom: A Sustainability Fellowship

Graduates of the Seasonal School will also have the opportunity to join a 5-Month Sustainability Fellowship, extending their learning and allowing them to deepen practical and soft skills aligned with sustainable development research.

Who Should Attend?

The program welcomes individuals working at the intersection of AI and climate change—researchers, innovators, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and students eager to design solutions that serve the needs of the Global South.

Registration Details

Registration is open until 31 January 2026, with participation fees covering accommodation, meals, local transfers, and excursions. Limited slots are available to ensure a high-impact, collaborative learning environment.

Contact Person:
Monroe Ouma
Email:mouma@acts-net.org
Organization: African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)

Kenya’s horticulture and fish industries are thriving, but succeeding in high-value global markets takes more than good produce—it demands global trust earned through strict certification and compliance. At the 2025 GLOBALG.A.P. Tour Stop in Nairobi, farmers, exporters, researchers, and policymakers came together around the theme: Driving the Region’s Agrifood Trade Through Compliance and Product Diversification.

This three-day event provided a dynamic platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration on food safety, certification, market access, and sustainability standards shaping future trade across the region and beyond. Here’s what each sector can take away.

Farmers: Growing Skills, Access, and Opportunities

Smallholder farmers are at the heart of Kenya’s agrifood growth. The Primary Farm Assurance (PFA) program introduced by GLOBALG.A.P.—now rebranded as Agraya—offers a stepwise path to certification, helping farmers build capacity in food safety, traceability, pest control, water management, and worker welfare. This support system equips farmers with tools to meet international standards and access premium markets.

Joyce Gema from TradeCare Africa stressed the importance of business models tailored to smallholder realities, highlighting how expanding regional markets like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) open new doors for farmers to become influential agribusiness players.

Exporters: Meeting Standards and Expanding Markets

Exporters face rising demands, especially from the European Union, which is increasing regulations around Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) and enforcing sustainability practices such as mandatory use of 70% recyclable packaging by 2030. These regulations are both a challenge and an opportunity—to differentiate products through compliance and sustainability.

Lilian Mwai of TradeMark Africa pointed out that export diversification, especially in fruits like mangoes, is making Kenya’s horticulture sector more competitive in global markets. Consistent quality and adherence to standards remain vital for sustained growth.

Researchers: Innovation and Evidence for Impact

The growing agrifood sector presents rich opportunities for research on sustainable farming, post-harvest loss reduction, and certification impacts. The Tour Stop showcased how research underpins policy and practice, from aquaculture development supported by Kenya’s government to pesticide regulation innovations led by agencies like PCPB.

Researchers are urged to focus on developing context-appropriate solutions and evidence to help farmers and exporters adapt to evolving international standards and environmental pressures.

Policymakers: Driving Collaboration and Sustainable Growth

Policy frameworks must foster collaboration across stakeholders and create enabling environments for certification uptake, market access, and climate-smart agriculture. The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development closed the event with a clarion call to shift 50% of horticultural exports from air to sea freight within 10 years—cutting costs and reducing the sector’s carbon footprint.

Policymakers also play a key role in ensuring pesticide regulations strike a balance between safety and practicality, supporting the promotion of biopesticides and safer farming practices that Kenya leads in regionally.

Conclusion: Compliance Unlocks Kenya’s Agrifood Future

For farmers, exporters, researchers, and policymakers alike, compliance is not a barrier—it is a gateway to new markets, innovation, and shared prosperity. By working together, Kenyan agrifood actors can compete confidently on the global stage, driving sustained growth and job creation for communities across the country.

In many African homes, cooking is an everyday ritual, especially for mothers and girls. It’s often a blend of tradition, nourishment, and love. However, behind this familiar routine lies a silent challenge: unsafe, inefficient, and polluting cooking methods that affect our health, time, and environment. This disproportionately affects women and girls who spend up to 4 times longer hours than men cooking and preparing food. Like many women in my community, especially in the village, the reliance on charcoal and firewood for years was common, unaware of the risks the family was being exposed to and not considering the amount of time spent in preparing food. The smoke-filled kitchen was a norm and is still a norm to many rural communities, and the daily struggle of sourcing fuel is an accepted inconvenience.

However, having moved to the urban setting, I transitioned to LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) as my primary cooking fuel, with occasional use of an electric pressure cooker and charcoal. LPG seemed cleaner and more convenient compared to firewood, but I quickly realized it wasn’t a perfect solution; it was still expensive, prone to supply shortages, unpredictable price changes, and not as environmentally friendly as I had hoped.  Until recently, in October 2024, I got the opportunity to participate in the Global Leap Awards, an international competition that identifies and promotes the world’s best, most energy-efficient appliances and equipment intended for use in energy-constrained settings, as a test user. The 2024 Global LEAP Awards focused on Induction Cooktops Competition. I had a chance to interact with a range of 11 induction cookers (ICs). An exceptional experience I feel privileged to have, and an eye-opener to the dynamics of the clean energy space. My Name is Sello, a mother of 2, living in Kasarani, Nairobi, Kenya.

A Costly, Health-Risking Way of Life

Cooking with traditional fuels, including charcoal, firewood, kerosene and even LPG has long been the norm for many African households. However, these methods come with hidden costs:

High costs: Charcoal prices have been rising within the day with the current price of a 2kg charcoal tin rising from Ksh 50 in 2020 to Ksh 120 today. The tin can averagely cook 3 to 4 meals at most depending on the size of the family and type of food. Kerosene prices for cooking stoves have also been increasing day by day with the monthly fuel prices review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA). LPG refills have been unreliable due to supply chain issues, expensive, (with a13kg cylinder going for Ksh 2500, and can only run my family for 1 month) and the unpredictable fluctuating prices making budgeting difficult. Charcoal for me often comes in as a backup, despite being aware of its environmental impact, I occasionally rely on charcoal, especially when preparing dishes that require more energy and longer time to prepare.

Time-consuming: Preparing meals over charcoal required constant attention, making multitasking difficult. It also comes with a lot of hygiene maintenance issues like constant refilling of the jiko with charcoal, and exposure of smoke and ash, which have proven to be dangerous if not well taken care of, especially in urban setting where often the kitchen space is very small and with limited aeration. LPG compared to charcoal is a bit faster but also requires constant monitoring

Limited use of electric cooking: Even though I own an electric pressure cooker, I use it sparingly because of concerns about electricity costs, but I have soon come to outgrow this misconception after keenly observing the cost incurred in buying electricity tokens, and adaptability to different meals.

Like many women, I must admit that I have been caught in this cycle, of navigating different cooking options depending on the type that is most accessible, reliable and affordable, not because I wanted to, but because I didn’t know a better alternative.

A New Chapter of Clean Cooking

This changed when I participated in the Global LEAP Awards Induction Cooktop Competition, as a test user of 11 different IC brands. It introduced me to induction cooking, a technology that has proven to be energy-efficient, fast, safe and clean cooking. At first, I was skeptical. How could a cooktop without an open flame replace my trusted charcoal jiko or gas burner? Would an IC really work for my daily meals? How much electricity would it consume? Would it be too complicated to use?

But as I started using the different ICs, my doubts disappeared. I quickly saw the difference and realized the potential of clean cooking. Here is what I discovered;

Cleaner, healthier and safer cooking: Unlike the use of charcoal and LPG, induction cooking has no smoke, no soot. Cooking with IC is just clean, breathable air for my family. The persistent coughs disappeared, and I no longer had to endure teary eyes while cooking. Pooping into my kitchen while preparing a meal, you could barely notice the source of energy, but just the delicious aroma of food. Cleaning up my kitchen surface after cooking was a breeze, the sleek surface of most ICs was wiped clean in seconds.

Time-Efficient and convenient: Cooking was faster! Water boiled in less than half the time compared to my traditional methods. I barely took more than 40 minutes preparing a basic meal like ugali, beef and vegetables. I had more time to focus on my children and personal growth. Another thing is the size of the IC, being compact and portable, I was able to integrate the IC into my small kitchen space without having to shift the arrangement and structure of my kitchen. Most of the ICs models had pre-set cooking functions, though some were not tailored to Kenyan cuisine. However, I had an opportunity to interact with an IC locally made in Kenya, which I felt was more versatile to the Kenyan cuisine and highly efficient as well.

Cost-Effective: While I initially worried about electricity bills, I soon realized that electric cooking generally is surprisingly more energy efficient lowering my energy costs. Cooking githeri on jiko-charcoal cost me ksh 240 (two tins of charcoal). Charcoal is also quite slow, taking 3-4 hours to cook, with constant monitoring to refill the jiko with charcoal. With an electric pressure cooker, I only use 2 electric units which costs ksh 56, I then shift to IC to fry my githeri, which also takes 0.8 electric units which costs ksh 22. I saved money while using a cleaner, faster, and more convenient method.

Easy Adaptation: Since I already had an electric pressure cooker, integrating induction cooking into my routine was easier than expected. It became my go-to solution, reducing my dependence on LPG and charcoal. While learning the settings of how to operate the induction cookers took a few tries, the process was smooth. All of them had manuals, with some having more simplified and elaborate instructions. I loved the fact that a few of them had, in the manual, troubleshooting options, and some even went further to provide emergency contact number for customer support. The cooktops were user-friendly, and with a few practice meals, I got the hang of it.

Sustainability and the bigger picture: With every meal, I felt empowered knowing I was making a small yet impactful contribution to reducing deforestation and carbon emissions. I no longer have to use charcoal which I know is produced from a tree cut somewhere. Every meal cooked on induction means less reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a greener future.

Learning, Adapting, and Sharing

Through the Global Leap award test user project phase, I learned not just how to use the induction cooktop but also how to maximize its benefits. Engaging with other participants in focus groups and WhatsApp discussions helped me learn best practices and troubleshooting tips, exchange recipes and discovering creative ways to cook traditional meals using modern technology. We shared our experiences daily, although very few of us struggled with electricity blackouts. While we were initially worried about needing induction-compatible cookware, the project provided them for us.

The impact of induction cooking was not just personal but community-wide and immediate in different ways, including;

Inspiring others: Several of my friends saw the benefits and expressed interest in switching to induction cooking. The aesthetics, portability and efficiency of IC made it more appealing. Seeing the experience of my cooking journey and being able to gauge the amount and time used to prepare meals made it very easy to convince them on its efficiency. Installing and using the IC as mentioned earlier didn’t require me to alter any of my kitchen arrangement. What I literally did was to flap my LPG cooker and place the IC on top.

Energy savings cost: On average, I spent 30-40% less on energy costs compared to use of LPG and charcoal. Previously, I would spend about ksh 4500 as cooking but energy cost in a month, but with IC and pressure cooker, I used about ksh 3000.

Creating awareness and empowerment: I now use my induction cooktop and electric pressure cooker more frequently, reducing my carbon footprint. I have also become an advocate for clean cooking, sharing my experience with neighbors and family. More women in my network are now considering induction cooking as a viable alternative, shifting perceptions that electric cooking is expensive or impractical.

Call to action

This experience reinforced an important truth: African mothers are ready for change, but we need access and awareness. Induction cooking is not just a luxury; it is a necessity for health, economic, and environmental sustainability. I would therefore recommend that governments support policies that promote clean cooking solutions through subsidies and awareness campaigns. Clean cooking Stakeholders must also ensure affordability and accessibility so that more households can make the switch to these kinds of technologies. It is also a call for communities to embrace adaptation, because the future of cooking should be clean, efficient, and sustainable.

I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this transformation. As an African mother, my priority is the well-being of my family, and clean cooking is one of the best gifts I can give them.

A Shared Vision for Climate Entrepreneurship

The meeting, held at the Makerere University Business School campus in Uganda, brought together representatives from MUBS, KCIC, and the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS). Discussions highlighted the value of partnerships that merge academic research, incubation, and entrepreneurship support to create sustainable climate solutions. The collaboration originated from earlier engagements under the Evi-SICEE framework, which aims to empower young innovators and women entrepreneurs working in clean energy sectors across Africa. Through this MoU, the institutions agreed to formalize cooperation in research, incubation, and mentorship, ensuring that results from current projects evolve into long-term, sustainable initiatives.

Strengthening Regional Innovation Ecosystems

The new partnership builds on a shared commitment to support climate-smart enterprises, enhance access to green financing and mentorship, and foster knowledge-driven entrepreneurship. KCIC, with over a decade of experience supporting thousands of green enterprises in Kenya and beyond, emphasized the importance of a Pan-African approach to climate innovation, one that nurtures locally developed solutions and scales impact across borders.

MUBS, on its part, showcased its vibrant innovation ecosystem, with active student and faculty engagement in research and enterprise incubation. The collaboration opens doors for Ugandan youth-led enterprises to access incubation support, market linkages, and mentorship through KCIC’s growing regional network.

Transforming Collaboration into Action

The MoU outlines practical steps to operationalize the partnership, including:

• Incubation of six youth-led enterprises under the Evi-SICEE project framework.
• Development of mentorship and internship pathways for students.
• Joint research and publications between the partnering institutions.
• Engagement with national ministries in Uganda to explore the establishment of a Uganda Climate Innovation Centre.
• A follow-up workshop to review progress and define next steps.

These actions reflect a clear roadmap toward deepening regional integration and scaling up climate innovation support.

Driving Sustainable Impact Beyond Projects

This collaboration symbolizes the spirit of the Evi-SICEE project, leveraging partnerships to amplify impact, create learning opportunities, and enhance sustainability beyond project lifecycles. It demonstrates how institutions can jointly address climate challenges by connecting research, innovation, and enterprise development.

The session concluded with a shared commitment to advance Africa’s green transformation agenda through inclusive, evidence-based, and entrepreneurial approaches.

Introduction
The global imperative to feed a growing population while simultaneously combating climate change has catalyzed the development of innovative solutions that merge agriculture with renewable energy. Kenya receives an average of 5–7 kWh/m² of solar radiation daily, yet less than 5% of its agricultural land currently integrates renewable energy solutions. One particularly promising approach gaining significant traction is agri-solar, a hybrid model that integrates solar panels directly with farming activities on the same parcel of land. This co-location strategy aims to optimize land use efficiency, boost farm incomes, and contribute to clean energy generation, creating a synergistic relationship between food and power production. As nations like Kenya actively pursue sustainable development pathways, a critical question emerges: can agri-solar truly be a key to a sustainable future? This blog delves into this question by examining the concept of agri-solar, its multifaceted benefits, the practical challenges to its adoption, illustrative examples within Kenya, and the future prospects for scaling up this innovative approach to support both environmental and social goals.

What is Agri-Solar?

Agri-solar, also known as agrivoltaics, refers to the dual use of agricultural land for both conventional crop cultivation or livestock rearing and solar power generation. This model stands in contrast to conventional standalone solar farms, which dedicate land exclusively to energy production. In an agri-solar system, solar panels are strategically installed above or alongside crops and pastures, allowing farmers to harvest sunlight for electricity while continuing their agricultural operations. A key feature of many agri-solar installations is the elevation of panels, which provides partial shading for crops beneath. This shading can yield significant agronomic benefits, such as improved soil water retention and the creation of more favorable microclimates for certain plant species, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. Configurations can range from fixed elevated structures to more advanced systems with adjustable panels that track the sun to optimize light exposure for both the plants and the photovoltaic cells. As highlighted in a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), this integrated approach leverages limited farmland more intensively, embodying a powerful synergy that addresses the interconnected challenges of energy and food production.

Potential Benefits of Agri-Solar in Kenya

Kenya presents a fertile ground for the expansion of agri-solar systems due to its abundant solar radiation and an economy heavily reliant on agriculture for livelihoods and employment. The potential benefits are multifaceted. Environmentally, agri-solar directly contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by displacing diesel-powered generators and kerosene lamps commonly used in rural areas. The partial shading from panels can mitigate water stress for crops, a critical advantage in Kenya’s drought-prone regions, potentially leading to higher yields for certain shade-tolerant species. Economically, this model provides farmers with a diversified and more resilient income stream; they can profit from selling surplus electricity to the grid while maintaining their agricultural output. This diversification is a crucial buffer against climate variability and market fluctuations. Furthermore, agri-solar presents a significant opportunity to empower rural communities, including women and youth, by creating decent work in both the farming and renewable energy sectors. Given the high unemployment rates in many rural counties, combined agri-solar projects can be a catalyst for inclusive economic growth and community-level resilience against climate impacts.

Case Study of an Agri-Solar Initiative in Kenya

A leading example of agri-solar application in Kenya is the Distributed Renewable Energy Ecosystem Model (DREEM) project, hosted by the Kenya Climate Innovation Centre (KCIC). This innovative initiative focuses on integrating solar power into critical agricultural value chains, particularly dairy and horticulture, in semi-arid counties such as Isiolo, Kitui, Laikipia, and Makueni. The DREEM project supports smallholder farmers and cooperatives by deploying solar-powered solutions, including milk cooling and processing systems. These technologies directly reduce energy costs and post-harvest losses while enabling cleaner production methods. Beyond the immediate technological benefits, the project empowers youth and women through targeted agri-solar entrepreneurship training and job creation, fostering a new generation of green entrepreneurs. By facilitating access to affordable solar energy and financing, DREEM builds stronger community resilience against climate change impacts and decreases reliance on costly, polluting fossil fuels. This integrated approach aligns closely with Kenya’s national commitments to higher renewable energy penetration and sustainable agriculture development, as outlined in the long-term development blueprint, Kenya Vision 2030, and the strategic Kenya Climate Change Action Plan.

Challenges for Agri-Solar Adoption in Kenya

Despite its considerable promise, the widespread adoption of agri-solar in Kenya faces several practical and policy challenges, as noted in a report by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). A primary barrier is the high upfront cost associated with solar technology and its installation, which can be prohibitive for smallholder farmers without targeted financial support or innovative financing mechanisms. Furthermore, policy and regulatory frameworks often have gaps, lacking clear guidelines for connecting these distributed energy systems to the grid and ensuring fair remuneration for fed-in power. There is also a significant lack of technical capacity; farmers and local technicians require training to manage and maintain the dual systems effectively. From an agronomic perspective, a key technical challenge lies in balancing crop yield with energy production. Not all crops are suitable for agri-solar environments; some high-value crops requiring full sun may experience lower yields under partial shading, which can limit the range of viable agricultural products for these systems. Addressing these interconnected challenges through financial innovation, supportive regulation, and targeted research is critical for agri-solar’s broader adoption across the country.

Policy, Institutional Support, and Future Prospects in Kenya

Policy, institutional support, and future prospects are critical pillars shaping the successful adoption and scaling of agrisolar technologies in Kenya, which combine solar energy generation with agricultural activities to boost food security and clean energy.

Policy

A supportive policy framework is essential for agrisolar adoption and scaling. Kenya’s policies increasingly recognize agrisolar as a strategic solution for sustainable development. The National Energy Policy 2025-2034 promotes renewable energy integration in agriculture, emphasizing solar-powered irrigation and value addition to increase farm productivity while reducing carbon footprints. Additionally, Kenya has formulated specific support mechanisms and subsidy schemes designed to increase access to solar technologies among smallholder farmers, facilitating affordability and uptake. The government’s commitment is also reflected in dedicated programs such as the Solar Energy for Agricultural Resilience (SoLAR) project, which channels resources into solar irrigation and processing solutions

Institutional Support

Institutional support in Kenya is robust, featuring collaboration between government agencies, research institutions, innovation hubs, and development partners. The Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation leads solar irrigation initiatives, while innovation centers like the Kenya Climate Innovation Center (KCIC) provide technical support, financing facilitation, and capacity-building to farmers and enterprises adopting agrisolar technologies. Other institutions such as Sustainable Energy Technical Assistance (SETA) contribute advisory services to align policies and enhance technical expertise, ensuring a conducive ecosystem for scaling solar energy in agriculture.

Future Prospects

The future of agrisolar in Kenya is promising, backed by the country’s vast solar resources and a significant portion of under-irrigated arable land that could benefit from solar-powered irrigation solutions. Advancements in solar technology, coupled with increased local manufacturing and innovative financing models, are expected to lower costs and encourage broader adoption among small-scale farmers. The integration of agri-solar with water management and climate resilience strategies presents a transformative opportunity to simultaneously address food security, energy access, and environmental sustainability. Kenya is poised to become a regional leader in agri-solar deployment, leveraging emerging trends and continuous policy improvements to create resilient and productive farming systems.

Conclusion

Agri-solar presents a promising pathway to a more sustainable and resilient future by combining clean energy production with food security on the same land. While challenges around cost, technology, and policy must be overcome, successful examples in Kenya and beyond demonstrate that the adoption and scaling of agri-solar can deliver environmental, social, and economic dividends. With supportive policies and inclusive programming focused on empowering rural communities, agri-solar can be a powerful tool to achieve climate goals, promote decent work, and advance Kenya’s sustainable development ambitions.

Imagine a community development project that has successfully distributed hundreds of water filters. On paper, it meets every target: outputs are delivered, reports are filed, and dashboards shine with progress. Yet months later, outcomes have barely shifted, and social dynamics within the community have evolved in unexpected ways. Who truly benefited? Which outcomes hold lasting significance? And who may have been left behind? These questions go to the heart of social impact, which can be understood as the long-term effects of interventions on the well-being of individuals, communities, and systems. Traditional metrics often fall short in capturing this complexity.

Interventions intersect with social norms, local economies, and political dynamics in ways that are rarely linear or predictable. Numbers may confirm delivery, but they rarely explain empowerment, trust, or shifts in community power. This is why understanding social impact requires approaches that blend quantitative data with stories, systems thinking, and lived experiences, perspectives that reveal what truly counts as progress in complex settings.

This blog explores how moving beyond metrics opens the door to evaluation that embraces complexity, nuance, and inclusiveness, enabling a deeper and more meaningful understanding of change.

Limitations of Conventional Metrics

Traditional impact metrics, such as headline numbers on yields, income levels, or program reach, often provide only a partial view of social change. While these quantitative indicators are useful for accountability, they tend to misrepresent complex realities and overlook critical nuances.

Another limitation for evaluators and policymakers lies in attribution: the difficulty of linking observed changes to a single intervention. Programs operate within overlapping economic, environmental, and social dynamics, making the isolation of effects a limitation in itself. Conventional metrics also overlook unintended outcomes, such as inequalities or ecological trade-offs, and often ignore local context. This leaves decisions resting on incomplete evidence, underscoring the need for adaptive, context-sensitive approaches that recognize complexities and interdependencies.

Complexity in Social Programs

Development programs rarely operate in isolation. They unfold in dynamic environments shaped by cultural norms, economic shifts, political dynamics, and community power relations. These factors interact in ways that are non-linear and often unpredictable, making social change difficult to measure through traditional cause-and-effect models.

For instance, a climate-smart agriculture program may introduce drought-resistant crops to improve food security. Yet whether these benefits last depend on household labor distribution, gender roles, and decision-making structures within communities. Such interdependencies mean outcomes emerge through feedback loops, social dynamics, and unintended ripple effects that linear metrics cannot capture.

Recognizing this complexity requires evaluators to move beyond simple input-output models and embrace approaches that can adapt to shifting realities, uncover hidden dynamics, and better reflect how change unfolds in people’s lives.

Why Context and Nuance Matter

While metrics can track outputs, they rarely reveal whether change is meaningful or equitable. Power dynamics, cultural practices, and equity considerations vary widely across contexts and often determine the success or failure of interventions. Ignoring these dimensions risks reinforcing exclusion or producing only surface-level outcomes.

Patterns in impact evaluation across Sub-Saharan Africa illustrate the importance of context. While more than 4,200 studies have been conducted in the region, over a quarter focus on Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia, while Central Africa remains underrepresented, often due to historical unrest and logistical barriers. This uneven distribution not only limits what is known but also shapes whose experiences define “evidence,” highlighting the need for more inclusive and context-sensitive approaches.

Leadership and funding patterns deepen this imbalance. Nearly one-third of lead authors of African impact evaluations are based in the United States, and much of the financing comes from major external funders such as USAID, the World Bank, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. With limited engagement of local governments and institutions, research agendas risk overlooking community-driven priorities, leaving issues of equity, inclusion, and resilience underexplored.

This is why adaptive management becomes essential. Embedding iterative learning cycles allows programs to adjust to shifting realities, ensuring strategies remain relevant, inclusive, and responsive to lived experiences. Nuance is therefore not optional; it is central to delivering social impact that is both meaningful and sustainable.

Approaches to Understanding Social Impact Beyond Metrics

Capturing the richness of social impact requires moving beyond purely quantitative measures by integrating qualitative methods. Methods such as qualitative interviews, storytelling, and participatory evaluation allow evaluators to uncover deeper insights into change processes. These approaches surface perspectives that numbers alone cannot: shifts in empowerment, changes in social cohesion, and alterations in local governance.

Mixed methods approach, combining surveys and statistical analysis with qualitative narratives, offers a more holistic understanding of impact. Participatory processes ensure the voices of beneficiaries are central to evaluation, making the process more inclusive and contextually grounded. Methodologies such as Complexity-Aware Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (CAMEL) provide tools for mapping dynamic interactions and adapting strategies in real-time, enabling evaluations that are both responsive and sustainable.

These approaches highlight what is possible when evaluations move beyond conventional metrics. The next step is translating these principles into practice

Practical Recommendations for Practitioners

To move beyond conventional metrics, practitioners ought to integrate multi-dimensional approaches into their monitoring and evaluation systems. This includes

• Embedding mixed-methods frameworks – Combining quantitative data with qualitative insights, enabling a fuller picture of impact.
• Applying flexible, context-sensitive impact assessments– Tailoring indicators to community priorities ensures evaluations reflect the realities on the ground. Context-sensitive tools make results more relevant, reducing the risk of overlooking local needs or reinforcing inequalities.
• Using adaptive evaluation approaches – Methods such as Outcome Mapping, Developmental Evaluation, and Complexity-Aware Monitoring allow teams to track emergent changes and adjust interventions in real-time. This strengthens responsiveness and long-term relevance.
• Fostering participatory evaluation – Engaging stakeholders in defining criteria, generating evidence, and interpreting findings builds ownership and accountability. Tools such as the Most Significant Change technique and community storytelling workshops enrich understanding while enhancing sustainability.

Conclusion

Understanding social change demands evaluation approaches that embrace complexity, adapt to context, and include diverse perspectives. By widening the lens of evaluation, practitioners can capture the depth of impact, including shifts in empowerment, equity, and social cohesion that numbers alone cannot reveal. Integrating qualitative insights, participatory methods, and systems thinking turns evaluations into tools for continuous learning and adaptive decision-making. The real challenge lies in ensuring that evaluation itself evolves alongside changing realities, remaining responsive to the communities it seeks to empower.

Introduction

Sustainable development is a comprehensive goal that work towards meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainability is the foundation for today’s leading global framework for international cooperation, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It encompasses a balanced approach involving three interconnected pillars: social equity, economic growth, and environmental protection. Together, these pillars aim to create a society where human well-being improves while maintaining the health of the planet. Specifically, social equity ensures fair access to resources and opportunities; economic growth promotes prosperity and quality of life; and environmental protection safeguards natural systems to sustain life and resources long-term.

Sustainable development initiatives achieve greater impact by actively engaging stakeholders, which fosters a sense of ownership, inclusivity, and enhanced effectiveness in meeting development goals. This inclusive approach ensures their diverse perspectives, local knowledge, and varied interests are incorporated into policy and action design, leading to long lasting solutions that are more relevant, culturally sensitive, and widely accepted.

Understanding Stakeholder Engagement in Sustainability

Stakeholder Engagement  is an ongoing, mutual process of involvement that goes beyond one-time consultation. It involves creating meaningful spaces and communication channels for dialogue, information sharing, collaboration, and co-creation among all parties affected by or influencing sustainability initiatives. This continuous engagement ensures that diverse perspectives are integrated into decision-making, strengthening the relevance, transparency, and impact of sustainable development efforts.

Common methods and tools used in stakeholder engagement include surveys, interviews, workshops, public consultations, stakeholder forums, advisory boards, and participatory decision-making platforms. These mechanisms facilitate transparent communication, active listening, and collaboration, ensuring stakeholders’ insights effectively shape policies and projects effectively. According to the Global Reporting Initiative,  85% of organizations recognize stakeholder engagement as essential for identifying and managing sustainability risks, making it vital for strategic decision-making, risk mitigation, and delivering impactful sustainability outcomes. Ultimately, stakeholder engagement transforms stakeholders from passive observers into active partners who innovate, provide feedback, advocate, and help implement sustainable practices that build trust, improve reputation, and foster long-term success.

Why Stakeholder Engagement is Crucial for Sustainable Development

Engaging stakeholders in sustainable development offers numerous benefits, including enhanced transparency that builds trust and fosters collaboration. It ensures that diverse perspectives and local knowledge are integrated into the development initiatives, creating shared ownership and responsibility for outcomes. This shared commitment motivates stakeholders not only to support but also actively promote sustainable initiatives. According to the Research Institute of Sweden, highlights that customers, NGOs, and local governments play vital roles in supporting firms’ sustainability transitions by providing information, feedback, and motivation for innovation. Stakeholders serve as innovators by contributing ideas and solutions and serve as reality-checkers validating sustainability efforts, brand advocates promoting sustainable values and provide continuous feedback providers for improvement. Financial contributors among stakeholders enable long-term sustainability initiatives, while community members ensure projects remain relevant and respectful of local contexts.

Challenges in stakeholder Engagement

Challenges in stakeholder engagement in sustainability initiatives encompass a variety of social, cultural, economic, and structural barriers. Social and cultural differences in language, norms, and values can cause misunderstandings and exclusion, while economic disparities limits the capacity of marginalized stakeholders to participate fully. Power imbalances often silence marginalized groups, undermining equity and legitimacy of engagement process. Additionally, many stakeholders face constraints in resources and capacity, which hinder effective and meaningful involvement. Further, there is also the risk of engagement becoming tokenistic, where participation is superficial and fulfills formalities without meaningful influence, causing distrust and weak outcomes.

Strategies for Effective Stakeholder Engagement

For stakeholder engagement to be effective, the process must be thoughtfully designed from the outset and  sustained throughout the initiative. Early involvement during problem identification and planning stages fosters ownership and helps prevent misalignment later phases. Engagement strategies should be customized to address the divers interests, influence, and expectations of different stakeholder groups, with special attention to accommodating marginalized or under-represented populations to ensure inclusivity. Collaborative approaches, where stakeholders actively contribute to shaping not just goals but also implementation mechanisms, yields  stronger, more resilient, and sustainable outcomes. Continuous communication, empowerment, and co-creation are key elements that can deepen stakeholder commitment and improve the overall success of sustainability projects.

Impact of Stakeholder Engagement on Sustainable Development Outcomes

Well-executed stakeholder engagement leads to the development of stronger, more context-sensitive policies and projects with broader local support. It enhances resource efficiency, promotes social inclusion, and strengthens environmental stewardship. Engaged stakeholders act as promoters who challenge assumptions and drive innovation aligned with sustainability principles. This support is critical for the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals and helps organizations meet global standards for transparency, fairness, and corporate responsibility. Currently, stakeholder engagement is recognized as a central pillar that makes sustainable development practical, inclusive, and impactful, ensuring that initiatives are both responsive to local needs and aligned with global sustainability frameworks.

The Role of Policy and Governance

Policies play a crucial role in mandating or encouraging stakeholder participation by establishing formal requirements and guidelines for inclusive engagement in sustainable development processes. Such policies often require early, continuous, and meaningful consultation with stakeholders, ensuring transparency, accountability, and respect for diverse perspectives. For example, environmental and social safeguard policies in international funding mechanisms like the Green Climate Fund (GCF) mandate accredited entities to integrate stakeholder engagement in project design and implementation, emphasizing the inclusion of vulnerable and marginalized groups. This legal and procedural framework ensures that stakeholder voices are not only heard but also actively inform and shape development outcomes, reinforcing the legitimacy and effectiveness of sustainable initiatives. Policies like those from UN-Habitat and UNDP further highlight principles such as equality, inclusion, shared responsibility, transparency, and sustainability in stakeholder engagement practices, supporting the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through multi-stakeholder partnerships and inclusive decision-making.

Governance frameworks promote multi-stakeholder collaboration by establishing structured platforms and mechanisms that facilitate shared responsibility and collective decision-making among diverse actors, including government agencies, private sector, civil society, and communities. These frameworks provide clarity on roles, responsibilities, and processes for cooperation, fostering trust through transparent communication and regular feedback loops. They also support capacity building, conflict resolution, and resource mobilization to sustain engagement over time. Kenya’s SDG stakeholder engagement roadmap exemplifies such  frameworks, institutionalizing partnerships and continuous dialogue to enable integrated and scalable progress toward national and local sustainability goals. This roadmap also involves multiple actors including national and county governments, private sector, civil society, academia, youth, parliament, and UN agencies working together through consultative, inclusive, and participatory processes to enhance ownership, legitimacy, and effective implementation of the SDGs.

Conclusion

Stakeholder engagement is fundamental to the successful advancement of sustainable development. When meaningful, early, and continuous engagement is embedded throughout the lifecycle of projects and policies, it fosters a more democratic, adaptive, and impactful approach. This inclusive process cultivates a culture of shared responsibility, transforming sustainability from an isolated goal into a collective journey. For any organization or government committed to sustainable outcomes, investing in strong stakeholder relationships and institutional frameworks is essential to translate vision into reality.

Circular economy is waste reimagined where resources are maximised, and waste is minimised by keeping materials in continuous cycles of recycling, reuse and value addition. This was directly tied to the Kenya National Research Festival 2025 theme, which as “Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security: Empowering Communities through Research, Science, Technology, and Innovation,” where a range of circular solutions, farm management practices and other innovations were showcased.  

During a panel discussion on ‘Diversifying Benefits from Waste Products through a Circular Economy’, experts, policymakers, and innovators unpacked how Kenya can shift from a throwaway culture to a thriving circular economy that benefits people, businesses, and the planet. 

This blog captures some insights from different speakers and shares some of the case studies in circular economy.

The policies exist, but enforcement and implementation are needed 

Salom Machua from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) outlined Kenya’s waste management laws. Since 1999, the Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act (EMCA) has empowered NEMA to regulate pollution, biodiversity, and waste. More recently, the Sustainable Waste Management Act (2022) introduced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), requiring producers to manage products through their entire lifecycle, alongside private-sector waste plans. Other tools include the National Solid Waste Management Strategy and the Electronic Equipment Disposal Bill. 

“The laws and policies are there; but the real challenge is enforcement,” Salom Machua emphasised. The panel noted lessons from the 2017 plastic bag ban, which cut usage by 80% within a year. Stronger enforcement, more officers on the ground, and citizen involvement in policy design were highlighted as critical next steps.  

Quantifying waste is the key to smarter interventions 

According to a report by Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs (ANDE) in 2024, Kenya generates 8.8 million tons of waste annually with over 75% ending up in landfills or incinerated. Nairobi alone produces 2,000–2,500 tons daily, 80% organic and 20% plastic, and nationwide, solid waste averages 3,000–4,000 tons daily, mostly from urban areas. 

Christine from ACTS stressed that while these figures are useful, they do not reveal which stages of the value chain generate the most waste or break down volumes of food, plastic, textile, and e-waste. Without these details, interventions risk being off target. Speaking during the Kenya National Research Festival 2025, in Njoro, Kenya, she emphasized that evidence-based solutions must start with accurate, localized data. 

From classrooms to communities  

The speakers agreed that there is a need to include topics and subjects on circular economy in school curricula. Students should not just read about the negative impacts of poor waste management but also learn how to leverage waste as a business opportunity through recycling, upcycling, and other circular economy practices. 

The youth need support to harness opportunities in circular economy innovations and to explore how they could become entrepreneurs. Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) that already have structures and machinery could offer training and even short courses to the youth and women, making practical knowledge easily accessible right within their reach. 

Child labor in waste management  

One festival participant noted that while the circular economy holds promise for Kenyan innovators, it also has a darker side. Young people, and some being underage, are drawn into waste collection for recyclers, often for meagre pay, while those with influence reap most of the rewards. Without stronger regulation, child labour risks overshadowing the real benefits of the circular economy. 

The two case studies below show that circular economy is not just theory, but it thrives through practical solutions and collaboration. 

Circular Retrofitting for Sustainable Industrialization (Geckocir) Project 

Christine from ACTS shared insights on the Geckocir Project, which is developing practical ways for food processors to upcycle waste into high-value products different from the traditional practices of recycling, repurposing and reusing. For instance, mango seeds can yield starch and mango peels can produce pectin which is both valuable in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. She noted that this shows the circular economy is not only about environmental management but also a business opportunity, made possible through collaboration among academia, industry, researchers, and regulators. 

Konza Technopolis: a living lab 

Konza, the Silicon Savannah of Africa, is a good example that proper waste management is possible. At Konza, waste is segregated at the source and continues to be separated until the end. This makes it possible to efficiently upcycle, recycle, or even reuse the waste for other secondary purposes before it is just disposed of. Konza offers a practical blueprint for scale-up in other parts of the country as well. 

Towards a Near-Zero Waste Future 

In conclusion, Kenya’s journey toward a circular economy is underway, but progress depends on stronger enforcement, accurate data, and community-driven education. At the same time, challenges such as child labor must be addressed to ensure that no one is left behind. With the right mix of policy, innovation, and citizen engagement, waste can indeed be transformed into a valuable resource that supports sustainable growth. 

Using AI to tackle climate change, the ethical risks are usually smaller and less serious than in areas like healthcare or criminal justice, where it relies heavily on personal data and makes direct decisions that affect people’s lives (Tsamados et al. 2020)

Introduction
Kenya, like many other countries, contributes to the global greenhouse gas emissions, and the risks it faces from climate change are significant. The main contributors are the Energy and Agriculture, Forestry, and Other Land Use (AFOLU) sectors, where deforestation, fossil fuel use, and agricultural expansion continue to drive growth in emissions. On average, emissions have grown by 4% per year since 1990.

To be climate sensitive, Kenya’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) commits to reducing emissions by 32% by 2030. To achieve this, the country has put in place policies in agriculture, energy, transport, forestry, waste, and industry. These include the Climate Smart Agriculture Strategy, Least Cost Power Development Plan, Sustainable Waste Management Act, and the 10% tree cover target. With this foundation in place, this blog tries to explain how Kenya should consider Artificial Intelligence (AI) in climate resilience efforts as part of the solution.

AI Against Climate Change
Artificial intelligence can be defined as a collection of computational tools and strategies designed to simulate or improve tasks typically perceived as requiring human intelligence (McCarthy et al. 2006). Through advanced data processing, AI can forecast temperature changes, anticipate events such as El Niño, model rainfall, and predict extreme weather patterns like floods and wildfires. These applications improve the accuracy of climate models and provide clearer insights into both present conditions and future risks.

In addition to deepening scientific understanding, AI has been increasingly applied to practical solutions that reduce emissions and support adaptation efforts. It is used to improve energy efficiency in industries and buildings, optimize shipping and grid systems, monitor pollution, and evaluate the carbon footprint of materials. AI also supports policy by simulating the potential impacts of measures such as carbon taxes and sustainable transport systems. AI works by converting data into actionable insights that inform both immediate responses and long-term strategies.

So What? The Need for Responsible and Inclusive AI
AI systems learn from past data that has already been labeled and organized, and they use this information to make predictions or decisions about new situations. The challenge is that if the original data contains bias, the AI can unintentionally carry it forward, leading to unfair treatment or discrimination against certain people or groups. For example, if AI relies on smartphone data to understand how people travel, it may overlook communities where fewer people own smartphones. This could lead to biased results that don’t accurately reflect everyone’s transportation choices (Dabiri and Heaslip 2018).

AI systems draw on both personal and non-personal data, and efforts to reduce emissions often depend on information that reflects patterns of human behavior raising important privacy concerns. For instance, control systems aimed at lowering carbon footprints, such as those used in energy storage, industrial heating and cooling, and precision agriculture, the effectiveness of AI systems often relies on highly detailed, real-time data. The data gathered can include sensitive personal details, creating risks to privacy not only for individuals but also for entire communities (Floridi 2017). The implication is clear: AI will only serve the climate agenda effectively if inclusivity, fairness, and data protection are embedded in its design and deployment.

Conclusion
Artificial intelligence offers a powerful opportunity to accelerate progress on Kenya’s and the world’s climate goals. Its ability to process complex data and optimize decision-making makes it a critical enabler of both mitigation and adaptation. However, the success of AI in this sector depends not only on technological capacity but also on aligning its use with ethical principles and societal values. The main challenge is to ensure that as AI is scaled up in climate action, it reduces emissions and enhances resilience without compromising fairness, inclusivity, or privacy.

For further reading:
Cowls, J., Tsamados, A., Taddeo, M. et al. The AI gambit: leveraging artificial intelligence to combat climate change—opportunities, challenges, and recommendations. AI & Soc 38, 283–307 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00146-021-01294-x

To unlock the full potential of whey and drive its environmental and economic valorization, we must unlock MYST (mindset, youth, storytelling, and technology), which means shift mindsets, amplify awareness, and foster inclusive collaboration using the most energetic people, the youth, across innovation, storytelling, and sustainable action.”
Why isn’t the problem? The challenges stem from disconnects, the way we work in separate corners, each guarding our little piece of the puzzle.

Researchers are discovering amazing things, but farmers don’t hear about them.
Government is shaping policy, but processors aren’t at the table.
Entrepreneurs have bold ideas, but they don’t know who to call or where to start.

It’s like we’re all part of the same band, but playing different songs, on various stages, with no one keeping time.

But the good news? We can change that.
We can break down the walls, bridge the gaps, and turn these separate voices into a harmony of action.

And now is the time.
Not tomorrow. Not next year.
Now is when we shift from seeing waste… to seeing it as wealth.
Now is when we stop working in silos and start building systems, together.
Now is when we unlock the power of mindset, youth, storytelling, and technology to drive change.
Because the opportunity is already here.
Whey isn’t just a byproduct. It’s a breakthrough waiting to happen.
And the time to act is now.

We have the knowledge, the tools, and, now more than ever, the collective will to act.

Call to action: So let’s keep this momentum going.

• Let’s co-create pilots.
• Let’s tell better stories.
• Let’s make the invisible visible

Because Whey Is the Way Forward.

Related resources: 

• Blog: Accelerating Market Penetration of Whey-based Food Products in Kenya: Matching consumer insights and innovation
• Blog: Whey Waste into Wealth: Harnessing the Possibilities of Whey in Kenya.
• Workshop report: Valorizing Dairy By-products: Insights from a Kenya Circular Economy Journey with the VALORISE Project
• Workshop report: Dairy Industry Sustainability through Adding Value to Processing Sidestreams
• Project Brief: Circular Bioeconomy for the Kenyan Dairy Sector (VALORISE)

^{The project is funded by the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs}

“Your research isn’t boring, it just needs to be told in a way that captivates and shows its impact.”

Peter Ongalo, MPRSK

Storytelling is one of the oldest and most powerful forms of human expression, with the ability to engage, influence, and inspire. For generations, it has been used to pass on knowledge, history, and cultural values, often through the oral narratives of our grandparents and great-grandparents, leaving lasting impressions that transcend formal education. By fostering connection and understanding, storytelling has played an important role in shaping societies, preserving heritage, and reinforcing ways of life across time.

Storytelling lies not only in its intuitive appeal but also in the cognitive and psychological principles that make stories memorable and impactful. For researchers, embracing storytelling can transform how their work is understood and received. This was emphasized during the ACTS Pathways Academy session at the ASk workshop, where participants noted that the message received by an audience often differs from the one intended by the presenter. By weaving storytelling techniques into their publications, researchers can bridge this gap, making their findings more accessible, relatable, and resonant with wider audiences.

When sharing research, clarity is essential. Use simple, precise language that avoids jargon and makes your work accessible to a broad audience. Shape your message with purpose by considering who you want to reach, whether academics, policymakers, or the wider public, and adapt your tone and platform accordingly. Equally important is presentation. While academic papers remain vital, complementary formats such as infographics, charts, or concise explainers can help distill complex ideas into more engaging, understandable forms.

From the publishing stage, practical storytelling matters because it encourages uptake by policymakers, practitioners, and the public. People are more likely to use research they understand. It also enhances visibility by increasing citations, media coverage, and policy relevance, and bridges the gap between research and real-world change.

It is also worth noting that your data can tell a meaningful story by highlighting its real-world implications rather than presenting raw numbers alone. Finally, situate your work within current debates in media and policy. By aligning your findings with timely issues and emphasizing their human impact, you enhance their relevance and increase the likelihood of influencing both public understanding and decision-making.

In the end, effective research communication is not just about what you know, but how you share it. By embracing storytelling, simplifying language, and connecting with audiences where they are, researchers can ensure their work not only informs but also inspires change. Publishing is not the end; it is the beginning of your research’s public life. The challenge and opportunity for scholars today is to make research resonate beyond academia and shape the conversations that matter most.

The ASk Network | Alternative Science Communication Network:
Connecting Communicators, Researchers, and Innovators for a New Era of African Science Engagement

With circular bioeconomy (CBE), the dairy sector is redefining byproducts “wastes,” into valuable resources with applications across different sectors globally. One of these is whey, a nutrient-rich byproduct that has the potential of being used to develop different products, creating sustainable value from dairy byproducts and achieving the circular economy. Read more on whey’s value & opportunities in this blog I co-authored titled Whey Waste into Wealth.

Whey-based product development is an avenue for innovation and value addition within the dairy sector, and in Kenya, it currently holds notable unexplored opportunities. It offers a promising opportunity for product diversification and business growth to processors because it is a versatile ingredient for developing a wide range of products. Whey-based products range from beverages, sports nutrition, health supplements to animal feeds, and even the production of biofuels.

In Kenya, there is huge consumer potential for whey-based products; however, consumer awareness of these products remains low. This was confirmed by Celestine Mutio, a Kenyan graduate student under the VALORISE project, who researched on consumer preferences and their willingness to pay for locally made whey-based yoghurt & smoothie products. Her findings showed that 80% of the in-store customers she interacted with are not aware of the locally made whey-based products, 97.7% are willing to purchase the locally made whey-based products, and the overall consumer product liking score was 4.5 out of 5.

Whey-based Product Innovation

Celestine’s findings, in-depth, showcase an opportunity for whey-based product innovation in the Kenyan market beyond the smoothies and yogurts; healthy product innovation opportunities are ripe with a ready market.

This product innovation opportunity was well displayed by one partner of the VALORISE project, Arla Food Ingredients, during the recently concluded workshop. This leading Danish dairy company has been at the forefront of value-adding innovation of whey and milk, and has developed new whey-based products like protein bars and new flavors like lemongrass-flavored yoghurts. During the workshop, participants enjoyed a product tasting session and gave real-time feedback on their taste, texture, and packaging appeal of the presented products, connecting science with consumer realities.

To drive such whey-based product innovation in Kenya, Arla Foods Ingredients has partnered with Promaco East Africa Limited, its Kenyan ingredient distributor and innovation partner. Informed by consumer studies, Promaco is currently working with a number of Kenyan dairy processors to develop products for the local market.

Existing dairy processors like Happy Cow Dairy Limited, a Nakuru County-based dairy manufacturer, pride themselves in producing dairy products, mainly cheese and yoghurt, with a whey-based product portfolio that includes strawberry & vanilla flavored Yogies Nutri-Yoghurt.
Another is Laki Laki® Limited, a Juja Town-based dairy company that utilizes whey as a key ingredient in its signature flavored smoothies.

Whey Tasting as a Market Penetration Approach

A consumer-insight-led whey-based product development contributes to a sustainable dairy sector in Kenya. These customer insights can be obtained from primary market research, market reports, and, most effectively, consumer feedback.

In the food industry, food sampling has proven to be a highly effective promotional strategy for new products; a sensory-driven experience that directly engages potential buyers. Food tasting is a sensory journey that engages all your senses when sampling and evaluating different foods to assess their quality, flavor, texture, and overall appeal.[1]

This is an approach that local dairy processors can utilize for their innovative whey-based products, allowing consumers to sample, evaluate, and build trust in the whey-based products before making purchasing decisions. Let’s call this experiential approach Whey-Tasting!

Practically, processors in Kenya can offer consumers a tangible introduction to whey’s nutritional value and environmental benefits by commencing a whey tasting campaign in every supermarket, fitness center, mall, and relevant public event, exposing potential consumers to whey’s nutritional and environmental impact while letting the whey-based value-added product’s flavor, texture, and other attributes do the convincing.

Whey Tasting campaigns in Kenya will accelerate market acceptance of whey-based products in the following ways:

• Increases awareness and visibility of the locally made whey-based products, thus enhancing consumers’ perception.
• Processors get to collect valuable customer feedback for further improvement, which solidifies existing product attributes.
• With the sensory experience, it initiates consumer loyalty to Kenya’s whey-based products, as it reduces the perceived risk of purchasing and builds purchase confidence.
• Whey tasting will drive sales. Research shows that in-store sampling can significantly increase sales, with some studies reporting uplifts of over 250%. [2]

Innovative Whey-Based Product Opportunities from Consumer Insights

1. High-Protein Beverages & Smoothies
   Consumers in Kenya showed strong willingness to pay for whey-based smoothies and fortified drinks, with strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate among the preferred flavors. These products directly target health-conscious urban consumers and fitness enthusiasts.
2. Functional Dairy Snacks (Protein Bars & Yoghurts)
   Product tasting sessions revealed enthusiasm for value-added whey yoghurts and bars enriched with natural sweeteners and innovative flavors such as lemongrass. These appeal to younger consumers seeking convenient and nutritious snacks.
3. School Feeding & Low-Income Market Products
   Whey can be transformed into affordable, nutrient-rich beverages or yoghurts tailored for children, especially within school feeding programs, a “low-hanging fruit” market opportunity repeatedly highlighted by stakeholders.
4. Wellness & Specialized Nutrition Products
   With global best practices from Arla Foods as inspiration, whey can be upcycled into specialized products such as sports nutrition powders, medical nutrition, and lactose-free options. Kenyan consumers expressed strong interest in healthier, low-fat, and naturally sweetened alternatives.

Collaborating for Whey’s Future

The time to act on whey is now. Consumer insights show a clear willingness to buy, yet awareness remains low. To bridge this gap, processors should introduce whey-based products supported by tasting campaigns in schools, gyms, and supermarkets, building trust and driving demand.

At the same time, policymakers must create an enabling environment through supportive incentives and certification, while researchers and innovators continue to diversify products and improve quality.
By moving together with a shared purpose, we can reposition whey from a by-product to a nutritious everyday choice, delivering health benefits to consumers, new opportunities for businesses, and lasting value for the environment.

Grounding

Whey valorization holds great promise for advancing Kenya’s circular bioeconomy and enhancing nutrition through innovative food products. However, low consumer awareness and adoption remain major hurdles. Introducing targeted whey tasting campaigns presents a practical and impactful solution, bridging the knowledge gap, stimulating demand, and accelerating the market penetration of whey-based products. By transforming the consumer experience into an engaging, sensory journey, whey tasting not only boosts visibility and trust but also converts curiosity into loyalty. The time is ripe to turn tasting into buying and elevate whey from shelf to staple.

Whey Tasting grounds Whey Buying!

[1]  Food Tasting 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Culinary Exploration:
https://lynasiascuisine.com/blog/food-tasting-101-a-beginner-s-guide-to-culinary-exploration

[2] Food & drink in-store sampling – the benefits to brands and retailers
https://www.fizz.co.uk/blog/in-store-sampling-for-brands-or-retailers/#:~:text=Encourages%20consumer%20trial.,word%2Dof%2Dmouth%20marketing.

Related resources: 

Blog: Whey Waste into Wealth: Harnessing the Possibilities of Whey in Kenya.

Workshop report: Valorizing Dairy By-products: Insights from a Kenya Circular Economy Journey with the VALORISE Project

As a researcher, I have been in the middle of working with the ocean resource for research, and my knowledge can be defeated by what the locals who have grown up seeing and making use of it. The further end comprises the rest of the world, who are ignorant and only see the ocean as a source of pleasure, a place to beat the blues, a playground, or a getaway. One gets to see the ocean for what it truly is, a living component of the earth, one that can ‘speak’ to us and advise on means of solving problems linked to climate change, food insecurity, biodiversity loss, and sustainability.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey (2023), approximately 71% of the Earth is covered by water, with the Oceans containing 97% of that world’s total water. It is a large body of seawater that acts as the Earth’s largest component of the hydrosphere. It has been in existence for longer than the human race, the earth’s oldest and largest storyteller, and it is important to listen to it when it speaks.

Figure 1: A coastal view of the ocean and adjacent mangrove forests, highlighting the interconnection between marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

This article provides a perspective shift. The ocean becomes a narrator, illustrating the beauty and biodiversity, the neglect and damage, and the strings of hope which, however fragile, can weave a balance between factors such as climate change and the blue economy. It begs for a listening ear that surpasses mundane hearing towards live actions.

I was here before you: The beauty and biodiversity.

I am not just a body of salt water; I am life. I am a large ecosystem that includes habitats like the coastal areas of salt marshes, mangrove forests, estuaries, and coral reefs, the open ocean comprising the surface waters where the sunlight penetrates, and the deep sea, characterized by cold temperatures and extreme pressure. The biodiversity within me is adapted differently to the varying oceanic conditions; some creatures here would leave you speechless. All these factors contribute towards climate regulation, where the ocean absorbs greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and excessive heat from the atmosphere, providing resources like food and raw materials for your industries, and nutrient cycling. I offer these gifts for free, if only the human race saw it as so.

You Took More Than You Gave: The neglect and damage.

Sea life had it so good before you launched your vessels into the surface water, before submarines, toxic waste dumped, construction, oil spills, and plastics, all of which are crippling my ability to exist, breathe, and help you live your lives optimally. I have become the largest waste basket for humanity. With overfishing, coral bleaching, and rising sea levels, only for you to satisfy your industrial demands. Capitalism will be the end of you, and sadly, me. My ability to contribute towards sustainability in matters of climate, food, and health has been utterly affected. You came with sails, then steel. And with every vessel, you brought harm.

Some Listen: The hope; Innovations around the Blue Economy.

I have seen collective efforts from the majority of you trying to do clean-ups, naturally growing seaweed, replanting corals and seagrasses, which will restore lost or ailing biodiversity. You are developing policies that are directed towards curbing pollution, slowing down over-fishing, and guiding the utilization of my resources. I am very appreciative that not all have turned away.

The ideology of the blue economy is a lifeline. There is hope in climate-smart livelihoods, innovations around seaweed farming, marine protected areas that create sanctuaries, and integrated aquaculture systems that develop a balance, restricting heavy maritime traffic flows, and banning construction around shorelines.

The evolution of farms to integration is quite creative, mimicking me. Once, you grew seaweed on its own and caged fish, solely having the waste produced run through the waters, creating problems like eutrophication. You are taking advantage of the cyclic nature within trophic levels and the ocean by combining different sea life into one system. You are now pairing finfish like rabbitfish with seaweed and shellfish or sea cucumbers, each element doing its part in cleaning or feeding the next one. The seaweed takes up the excess nutrients, the bivalves work on what floats by filtering it, the fish develop, and the waste produced acts as a resource rather than a burden on me. You have dabbed it, Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system, Figure 2, I refer to it as restoration.

Figure 2: Conceptual diagram of an Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system.

The illustration shows a structured arrangement of three trophic levels: fed species (fish in cages), inorganic extractive species (seaweed on floating rafts), and organic extractive species (e.g., filter-feeding shellfish). Arrows indicate the flow of particulate organic matter (POM) and dissolved inorganic nutrients (DIN) from fish waste, which are then utilized by the shellfish and seaweed, respectively. This setup demonstrates the ecological synergy within IMTA systems, where waste from one species becomes a resource for another, contributing to environmental sustainability and nutrient recycling.

Source: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Conceptual-diagram-of-the-integrated-multitrophic-aquaculture-system-Boxes-represent_fig1_276174838

You have incorporated traditional knowledge, looped in the local communities, especially women and experts, to scale up the system, looking at what works, what does not, learn, and ensuring it performs its intended purpose of becoming a bridge between livelihood and preservation and between a healthy ecosystem and food security.

Call to action

I am requesting collaboration, partnerships, restoration, and respect, not pity. I have been a resource since my beginning and request that you build systems that heal, those that enable me to do my job, leaving behind ones that cause me harm. I call on you to work with me and not around me.

Partnerships are needed across coasts, communities, and regions since my currents do not have borders; what affects me in Kenya has the potential to impact China and Australia. Science and research need more investment, but traditional knowledge and wisdom should never be left out of the equation. More people should be looped in to ensure they understand my significance and that what is done inland will affect me in the long run. Blue economy should not just be a colour but a blueprint for survival on a warming planet.

Sources

1. S. Geological Survey. (2023). How much water is there on, in, and above the Earth? https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-school/science/how-much-water-there-earth
2. Zhang, J., Hansen, P.K., Fang, J., Ma, S., & Jiang, Z. (2015). Conceptual diagram of the integrated multitrophic aquaculture system. ResearchGate

Following a month of technology testing, the Lari farmers will be using PCM cold storage (charged in a solar-powered freezer) and insulated boxes to move temperature-sensitive horticulture produce to market. They will be able to test the performance against their traditional vehicle with Carrier TRU as part of the Try Before You Buy (TBYB) programme.

The TBYB is the second phase of the SPOKE community engagement programme developed by the Clean Cooling Network (CCN) and Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling and Cold-Chain (ACES). In Phase 1 during 2024, the ACTS SPOKE team had provided the support, mentoring, and training to support the community leaders and the wider community to establish a grassroots, community cold-chain ecosystem. The support was guided by an in-depth needs assessment to evaluate present and future cooling requirements of the community that would inform a business case for investment in cold chain. In Phase 2, through the Try Before You Buy concept, a package of basic cold-chain equipment (static and transport) has been installed for the coming harvest, during which the community can test out their business model in real conditions with ongoing support and mentoring during this period.

To date, 163 smallholders have already registered to join the cooperative, and more are joining as they can see the tangible benefit. The farmers are already reaping the benefits of the cold-chain: on average, they fetch over 50% better prices for their produce than previously.

As part of the TBYB programme, a 500L solar-powered phase change material (PCM) freezer was installed at the beginning of July, 2025. The PCM freezer system is run off three 535W solar panels (49.8V). The installation was completed without incident, with all components passing functionality and safety checks. Routine maintenance guidance includes weekly cleaning of solar panels and regular defrosting of the PCM freezer to maintain peak performance. User training emphasised practices such as minimising door openings and avoiding overloading the unit.

Month-long testing included evaluation of the PCM freezer’s ability to reach and maintain target sub-zero temperatures and night-time operation using battery storage as well as confirmation of the proper function of all system components. Wireless Bluetooth temperature and humidity sensors were installed to remotely monitor internal conditions.

Key Findings

• PCM Freezer Components: The core refrigeration components (compressor, thermostat) are functioning optimally.

• Power System: The battery and charge controller performed well; however, the initial inverter had defects which were rectified through replacement.

• Night-time Operation: The PCM freezer sometimes struggled to maintain low temperatures overnight during cloudy periods, highlighting a potential need for expanded battery capacity or hybrid power backup.

With the testing completed, the farmers will start to use and test the equipment for onward moving of their produce to market. The installation and commissioning of the solar PCM freezer at ACTS marks a significant step toward sustainable, decentralised cold-chain, helping to deploy non-diesel transport solutions. While initial testing revealed challenges under variable weather, system refinements have improved reliability. As the PCM freezer enters its next phase of performance trials, it holds promise for enhancing cold chain solutions across rural and peri-urban Kenya.

In March 2025, the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), in collaboration with the Clean Cooling Network (CCN), the Lari Horticultural Farmers’ Cooperative Society Limited (LHFCSL), and key stakeholders, launched Kenya’s and Africa’s first “Try Before You Buy” (TBYB) sustainable cooling and cold-chain unit in Kinale, Lari Sub-County, Kiambu County. This is part of the Specialized Outreach and Knowledge Establishment SPOKE programme.

The TBYB is the second phase of the SPOKE community engagement programme developed by the Clean Cooling Network (CCN) and Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling and Cold-Chain (ACES). In Phase 1, during 2024, the ACTS SPOKE team had provided the support, mentoring and training to help the community leaders and the wider community to establish a grassroot, community cold-chain ecosystem. The support was guided by an in-depth needs assessment to evaluate present and future cooling requirements of the community that would inform a business case for investment in cold-chain. In Phase 2, through the Try Before You Buy concept, a package of basic cold-chain equipment (static and transport) has been installed for the coming harvest, during which the community can test out their business model in real conditions with ongoing support and mentoring during this period.

With its deep community engagement, the overall programme is a transformative approach designed to demonstrate the value of sustainable cooling and cold-chain solutions to smallholders and other actors along the value chain. Over the whole interaction period, this intervention provides the evidence base of the value of cold-chain investment that will then make a business case for investment. Crucially, TBYB is not a standalone technical intervention. It is a risk-mitigating, evidence-producing trial to test the cooperative’s business model in live market conditions that comes after a long engagement and preparation phase. From the beginning, the community receives continued support and training. This enables them to refine their price strategies, market access, logistics and demonstrate how the cold-chain business benefits their farmer members during the following TBYB phase. It ultimately positions the cooperative to rally for investment into its very own tailored permanent Community Cooling Hub (CCH).

The smallholder farmers in Lari are thrilled about the opportunity to unlock new markets that will pay them fairer prices for their hard work of tilling the land. In addition, through the TBYB approach, farmers get a bundle of tailored services and support including post-harvest management training, market links and support for their business development to enable them to maximise the value from their produce.

To date, 163 smallholders have registered to join the cooperative and more are joining as they can see the tangible benefit. A main reason to join has been the outlook of aggregating their produce through the cold-chain and collectively marketing their top-quality produce to higher end markets. The farmers are already reaping the benefits of the cold-chain: on average they fetch over 50% better prices for their produce than previously. As they operate through a cooperative model, the farmers must always receive 80% of the price their products achieve on the market – while 20% remain within the cooperative as revenue to ensure sustainable business operations.

The experimental nature of the TBYB approach means the Lari farmers are learning valuable lessons on collective action, market dynamics and the importance of structuring their business to continually meet the demands of the market – as well as seeing the impacts it can bring. This also comes before having to make big capital investments as a cooperative. Farmers in Kinale are pioneering the way to actualising the vision to close the access gap to cold-chain as critical infrastructure.

Introduction

The Yala Wetland, one of Kenya’s most ecologically vital and culturally rich landscapes, is undergoing a transformation that is both quiet and significant. Once vibrant with papyrus reeds, fish populations, and community activity, the wetland has been increasingly threatened by unsustainable land use, deforestation, and large-scale agricultural developments that have disrupted its ecological and social balance (Dedan, 2023)

These pressures have had a profound impact on the local population. Fishers have experienced a steep decline in stocks, smallholder farmers are struggling with irregular water flows, and women who depend on papyrus weaving have seen their raw materials diminish (Thenya, 2006). Longstanding cultural ties to places such as Risamba and Thithia are also weakening under the strain of environmental change.

In response to these challenges, the TRANSPATH project, a collaborative initiative spearheaded by Egerton University, the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), and Kaimosi Friends University, in partnership with local and global stakeholders, has been focused on co-developing inclusive, science-driven tools for sustainable governance of wetlands in the Lake Victoria Basin. A significant aspect of this project is the Yala Wetland Transformation Laboratory (T-Lab). This participatory space brings together communities, researchers, policymakers, and civil society to co-create restoration strategies and build shared ownership of the wetland’s future.

This blog draws on reflections and insights from the second Yala T-Lab held in May 2025, as documented in the official workshop report II. It highlights how dialogue, learning, and collective action are helping to reframe the future of the Yala Wetland, from a landscape in crisis to one rooted in collaboration and possibility.

A Moment of Reflection and Realignment

The second Yala wetland T-Lab, held in May 2025, provided an important opportunity for stakeholders to reflect, recalibrate, and recommit. Instead of merely recounting past efforts, participants re-engaged with the foundational Seeds of Change identified in the first T-Lab: Legal Advocacy and Policy Dialogue, Wetland Education and Outreach Programmes, Community-Led Restoration, Inter-agency Coordination, and Papyrus-Based Enterprises. The aim was to refine and realign these themes to better reflect evolving local realities and shared aspirations for the sustainable management of the Yala Wetland.

Among the key outcomes was a reaffirmation of community-led restoration, emphasizing local stewardship of degraded zones. Papyrus-based enterprises were redefined to reflect a more collaborative and research-informed approach to sustainable livelihoods. Inter-agency coordination was reimagined with a focus on transparency and practicality, while education and outreach were elevated as essential drivers of transformation. Legal advocacy and policy dialogue also received renewed attention, with participants calling for more effective enforcement and increased public awareness.

As one participant noted, “The T-Lab gave us a chance to look at our roles differently, not as isolated actors, but as contributors to a shared journey.”

Deepening Understanding across the Landscape

The discussions at the T-Lab revealed the importance of making knowledge accessible, actionable, and inclusive. Participants stressed that many community members remain unaware of key environmental laws, wetland dynamics, or their roles in conservation.

To bridge this gap, stakeholders underscored the value of culturally relevant education. Community radio programs, school mentorships, storytelling, and local dialogues were cited as vital tools for reaching different groups, especially youth and marginalized populations. These approaches help translate policy into practice and foster local ownership.

“You cannot enforce what people do not understand. Education is where accountability begins,” observed a local teacher from Siaya.

The dialogue also highlighted a disconnect between policy frameworks and community awareness. Even where strong legal instruments exist, implementation is often slow due to lack of communication or coordination. Addressing this requires trust-building and more regular joint planning.

Recognizing Economic Realities

The relationship between environmental restoration and sustainable livelihoods was another recurring theme. The pressures facing the wetland are closely tied to the everyday economic needs of communities. Participants emphasized that conservation efforts must go hand in hand with income-generating alternatives.

Structured and environmentally sound enterprises, such as papyrus product development, beekeeping, and ecotourism, were seen as essential to long-term success. These must be developed with research support, technical training, and collaborative planning.

One participant from Busia summed it up: “Restoration without livelihoods will not last. People must see value in protecting the wetland.”

Translating Insight into Action

Building on these insights, the T-Lab transitioned into concrete planning. Stakeholder groups outlined commitments and timelines across immediate, medium, and long-term horizons. Women’s associations from Siaya advocated for improved water access, formalized community-based enterprises, and skills training. Men called for increased community education, valuation of ecosystem services, and infrastructure repair. Busia representatives pushed for localized training, ecological land-use planning, and stronger radio programming to spread awareness.

Additionally, Government agencies and civil society actors presented strategies for operationalizing land use plans, supporting conservation-based businesses, and establishing wetland resource centers. The private sector emphasized conservation-linked investments and long-term financial models like payment for ecosystem services.

The resulting roadmap included short-term activities like public education and fishing regulation, medium-term actions such as enterprise support and data-sharing mechanisms, and long-term strategies aimed at institutional resilience and intergenerational learning.

Personal Responsibility and Shared Ownership

The most powerful segment of the workshop came during the closing reflection. Participants responded to prompts on personal commitments: “What will I stop doing?” “What will I start doing?” “What will I continue doing?”

These reflections were deeply personal yet broadly unifying. Some pledged to stop harmful practices like illegal fishing, others committed to starting mentorship programs, or documenting Indigenous knowledge. Many resolved to continue their outreach and environmental education work.

“We are restoring not just trees, but trust,” one woman from Siaya remarked.

These individual pledges reinforced the workshop’s central message: lasting transformation begins with personal resolve and collective accountability.

Sustaining the Momentum

The Yala Wetland remains a place of ecological complexity and cultural significance. Its future, while still uncertain, is now being shaped through inclusive dialogue, evidence-based planning, and mutual commitment. The lessons from the T-Lab are clear. Restoration requires coordination, education, and sustained collaboration. No single actor can achieve this alone.

“Everything else may be in place, but without law and order, it will all collapse,” an elder from Yimbo cautioned.

The reframed seeds of change now serve as both a strategic guide and a symbol of renewed partnership. If nurtured, this momentum could transform Yala wetland from a contested landscape into a model of participatory wetland governance. Ultimately, Yala Wetland’s story is more than environmental recovery. It is about reimagining relationships between people and ecosystems, knowledge and action, rights and responsibilities. If the spirit of the T-Lab is sustained, then Yala wetland may yet become not only a restored wetland, but a future reclaimed.

References

• Dedan, O. O. (2023). The Economic Benefits of Yala Wetland Resources in the Lake Victoria Basin: Threats. African Journal of Education, Science and Technology, 7(3), 65-75.
• Thenya, T. (2006). Analysis of Macrophyte Biomass Productivity, Utilization, and its Impact on Various Eco-Types of Yala Swamp, Lake Victoria Basin, Kenya. 33–36.

Related Resources

• Yala T-Lab Workshop Report II

In Africa’s race toward a clean energy future, the most powerful fuel may not be solar, wind, or even finance—it’s data. But not just any data. We’re talking about localized, community-driven, context-rich insights that turn policy into impact and ambition into access. As millions across Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa still live without electricity, the path forward isn’t just about building more solar panels or importing wind turbines. It’s about rooting energy solutions in the lives, voices, and knowledge of local people—and that begins with how we collect, share, and act on data. Welcome to a movement where people power energy policy, and data becomes the driver of a just, green, and local transition.

Africa’s Renewable Energy Potential: A Story of Abundance and Need

Africa is home to some of the world’s richest renewable energy resources. The continent, for instance, enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year and vast untapped wind corridors, particularly along the coasts and highlands. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the continent has the technical potential to generate more than 1,200 gigawatts (GW) of electricity from solar and wind annually—enough to power the region many times over.  Yet despite this potential, as of 2023, approximately 12.6 million people in Kenya, 7.4 million in South Africa, and 3.5 million in Ghana still lack access to electricity. The gap between what is possible and what is real remains stark, and localization may be the key to bridging it.

Localization refers to the development, production, and deployment of renewable energy technologies, skills, and services within a country or region, rather than importing solutions wholesale. But it’s more than building solar farms or wind turbines. Localization is about nurturing entire ecosystems: from manufacturing supply chains and skilled labor to culturally relevant community ownership. When done right, localization offers a pathway to:- Job creation and technical up-skilling – Industrial development and reduced import dependency- Community inclusion and buy-in- Resilient energy systems that adapt to local needs

Key Opportunities for Localization

• Manufacturing and Local Supply Chains: Africa can manufacture components such as mounting structures, wind turbine towers, cabling, and inverters. With strategic policy incentives and investment, these local supply chains could reduce costs and boost national economies.
• Skills Development and Training: The clean energy economy requires a workforce trained in solar PV installation, energy auditing, system maintenance, and project management. Local institutions can play a critical role in up-skilling young people for these opportunities.
• Community Participation and Cultural Relevance: Energy solutions must resonate with local priorities. Localization means planning with—not just for—communities to ensure lasting success.
• Decent Jobs and Economic Empowerment: The clean energy transition can create millions of dignified jobs across sectors. From logistics and construction to operations and customer care, local economies stand to gain.

IRENA estimates that by 2030, Africa’s renewable energy sector could support over 13 million jobs—only if localization is embedded in national strategies. Localized systems also offer greater resilience. During global supply chain disruptions, nations with local energy industries and infrastructure suffer fewer setbacks. Moreover, localization enables technology transfer, encourages innovation, and strengthens regional trade.

The Role of Data in Localization

Data is the backbone of a localized, community-led energy future. Without reliable, inclusive, and up-to-date data, energy strategies risk missing the mark. This is where campaigns like “Powering Policies Through Data” come in. Launched in Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa, the initiative trains grassroots researchers to collect real-world data at the community level. These local grassroots researchers serve not just as data collectors but as knowledge translators, making technical energy insights understandable and actionable for both communities and policymakers.  Data is driving change in key areas, including identifying viable components for local manufacturing. Mapping skills gaps and training needs. Tracking community inclusion and ownership models. Informing climate adaptation and environmental impact planning.

When local voices inform local data, policy becomes more responsive, and the energy transition becomes more just. 

A recent dialogue in Kenya’s Coastal Region, with consultations still ongoing in other regions, explored the question:“Are we ready to localize solar and wind energy components—and under what frameworks can this be achieved?”Key insights from stakeholders included:- The need to identify feasible components for local production- Strengthening technical skills and infrastructure- Developing policy and financial incentives to support local investment. The consensus was: Localization is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It must be adapted to each region’s socio-economic and industrial context.

The UNEP-led Trans-boundary Data Sharing Workshop recently held in Nairobi showcased how community data can influence national energy planning. The event explored the full data lifecycle—from collection to dissemination—and highlighted self-reported community data as a powerful tool for shaping energy policy. The workshop made it clear: data is not a product. It is a shared resource—and to be effective, it must be trusted, transparent, and usable across institutions and borders.

This is the Way Forward: A Just, Green, and Local Energy Transition

Africa’s population is projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050. Meeting the rising demand for electricity with sustainable solutions will require bold thinking and bold action.The future of energy in Africa must be:- Green, to protect our environment- Just, to uplift communities- Local, to build economic resilience and social inclusion.That means:

1. Investing in people, not just hardware
2. Fostering governance systems that ensure accountability
3. Creating partnerships that unite governments, civil society, academia, and the private sector
4. Promoting data democratization to ensure everyone can participate in shaping the energy future

“When local voices shape local data, we build stronger, smarter energy systems—together. This is more than a technological shift. It’s a movement for justice, resilience, and shared prosperity—one where Africa leads, innovates, and thrives on its own terms.”

Call to Action

It’s time to power Africa with African solutions. Localize data, localize energy—act now. If data is the new oil—and energy the engine of development—then shouldn’t the people closest to the ground be in the driver’s seat?

What if the byproduct of your favourite cheese or yoghurt held the key to transforming Kenya’s food system toward a circular bioeconomy, fueling innovation, and cutting down on waste management from processing? Kenya’s dairy sector is experiencing rapid growth, with increased production of cheese and yoghurt to satisfy expanding consumer demand. The Kenya Dairy Board projects that cheese and yoghurt consumption will double by 2030. This expansion brings a significant challenge owing to increased volumes of whey of how to effectively manage whey, a byproduct in processing cheese and yoghurt. Hence, produced and discarded. Whey is an asset with tremendous potential to foster sustainability, enhance nutrition, as part of the growing interest in bioeconomy. This was the central message conveyed at the recent VALORISE project workshop held in Nairobi. The VALORISE project aims to map whey’s usage amongst Kenya’s dairy processors, assess the environmental impact of whey waste and identify feasible and sustainable pathways to turn whey into valuable products.

The (Mis)opportunity of Whey
Whey valorization is a key to aligning Kenya’s dairy sector with sustainability by integrating circular bioeconomy principles. Whey, cheese and some yoghurt processing byproducts, typically discarded as waste, contributing to environmental problems because of its rich organic content. However, whey is rich in protein, lactose, vitamins, and minerals, making it suitable for valorizing it into new products such as nutritional supplements, animal feed, and functional foods and pharmaceutical applications, and/or bioenergy production.

However, findings from the VALORISE project revealed that 80% of dairy processors in Kenya producing whey from cheese and yoghurt processing discard the whey while the minority sell or give for free for animal (pig) feeding. High transportation costs and inadequate infrastructure for storage and handling, limited scale were identified as major barriers.
In this context, a scenario workshop was organized by the project to discuss with stakeholders pragmatic opportunities or pathways for valorisation of whey in Kenya. The pathways should be economically viable and environmentally sound. Three pathways were identified

1. For livestock (pigs and chickens) farmers, integrating whey into feed formulations can lower the high expenses associated with traditional protein sources.
2. For processors, it presents a chance to diversify their revenue streams by developing additional whey-based products
3. The development of products that can be considered in the pharmaceutical sector.

The first two seem most promising in the short and medium term. Valorization of whey will contribute to environmental sustainability through diverting the waste into products, thus decreasing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, potentially saving 6,000 tons of CO₂ and thousands of hectares of land each year if just 10% of Kenya’s whey is valorized. If harnessed properly, whey’s potential could significantly diminish waste, bolster livelihoods, and improve food security.

The Need for Innovation, Policy, and Collaboration Whey valorization in Kenya faces key hurdles: minimal policy guidelines, limited research and innovation, insufficient processing infrastructure, and low public awareness The workshop called for a bold coordinated action plan that includes policy reform, investments in processing technology, research to determine optimal The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development must lead with clear regulations, promote research & innovation, and foster public-private partnerships. Capacity Strengthening and Financially Empowering the Local cooperatives and processors scales up technology and market whey-based products.

Activities during the Trends and Opportunities for Valorisation in Kenya dairy processing Scenario Workshop in Nairobi, Kenya.

A Future Grounded in Circular Thinking
Kenya’s dairy sector is at a pivotal moment, with a vision toward sustainable growth etched in the Dairy Sustainability Road Map. With the right investments, whey can be transformed into a resource and contribute to sustainable dairy innovation. The VALORISE project has laid the groundwork; now is the time for stakeholders throughout the value chain to take action. By adopting circular bioeconomy principles and valorizing whey, Kenya could lead Africa in creating a robust, inclusive, and climate-resilient dairy sector where nothing is wasted, and everything holds value.

Call to Action: Whey isn’t waste—it’s a resource. The VALORISE Project, through research, has shown what’s possible. Now it’s time for dairy farmers, processors, policymakers, dairypreneurs, donors, research institutions and supporting agencies in Kenya to take bold steps toward a more sustainable, circular, and profitable dairy sector.

Together, we can turn every drop of whey into a step toward a greener future!

Related resources: 

Blog: Accelerating Market Penetration of Whey-based Food Products in Kenya: Matching consumer insights and innovation

Blog: Whey Waste into Wealth: Harnessing the Possibilities of Whey in Kenya.

Workshop report: Valorizing Dairy By-products: Insights from a Kenya Circular Economy Journey with the VALORISE Project

A Game-Changer for Smallholder Farmers

Imagine working tirelessly to grow fresh, high-quality produce only to lose a significant portion of it due to post-harvest losses and a lack of access to suitable, sustainable cold chain infrastructure and a link to reliable markets. This has been the reality for many smallholder farmers in Kenya—until now—and is denying them the opportunity to realise profitability from their farms.

On March 25, 2025, the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), in collaboration with the Clean Cooling Network (CCN), the Lari Horticultural Farmers’ Cooperative Society Limited (LHFCSL), and key stakeholders, launched Kenya’s first “Try Before You Buy” (TBYB) sustainable cooling and cold chain unit in Kinale, Lari Sub-County, Kiambu County as part of the Specialized Outreach and Knowledge Establishment model of CCN. This innovative solution promises to revolutionize post-harvest management, enhance the quality of produce, and increase market connectivity for local farmers. 

The TBYB model is a transformative approach designed to demonstrate the value of sustainable cooling and cold chain solutions to smallholder farmers focused on horticultural production and linked value chain actors, and to make a business case for investment. By showcasing improved post-harvest management that reduces food loss, the TBYB approach aims to establish a financially viable business model that will encourage investment in Community Cooling Hubs (CCHs)—farmer-managed infrastructure that ensures produce quality, reduces post-harvest losses and unlocks market connectivity. 

Why Sustainable Cooling Matters

Post-harvest losses continue to be a significant challenge for smallholder farmers, often resulting in wasted resources and financial hardships. The TBYB cooling and cold chain unit offers farmers the opportunity to experience firsthand the benefits of sustainable, energy-efficient cooling technologies before committing to full-scale adoption. This initiative is not just about storage and preservation—it’s about securing livelihoods, strengthening food systems, and creating a resilient agricultural sector that guarantees a sustainable future for smallholder farmers.

A Landmark Ribbon-Cutting Event

The TBYB launch event was a momentous occasion that brought together key stakeholders from the local government, the private sector, and development partners and farmers organized into a cooperative. The event sought to kick off operations of the hub where the smallholder farmers will undergo training and business support, coupled with access to sustainable cooling technologies to enhance their profitability in the horticultural value chains through improved post-harvest management, produce aggregation, and structured high-end market connections.

The event was graced by notable figures including David Kuria (CECM, Agriculture, Livestock & Irrigation, Kiambu County) and Prof. Tom Ogada (Executive Director, ACTS), who flagged off the first produce delivery to TAWI Packhouse—signifying the beginning of a new era in smallholder farming.

“This program will help farmers lose fewer crops after harvest and sell to more markets, increasing their income,” stated David Kuria.

Prof. Tom Ogada highlighted: “This is a significant milestone in transforming agricultural value chains. By integrating sustainable cooling solutions, we are empowering farmers with the tools they need to compete in premium markets while ensuring food security.”

Bringing Farmers and Market Players Together

A key highlight of the day was the Farmer’s Open forum, which allowed them to engage with financial service providers, market off-takers, and cooperative leadership. The event was attended by 43 farmers.

Farmers learned about market engagement strategies, the benefits of collective action, and how sustainable cooling can help them access premium markets beyond traditional roadside sales.

Real Impact: Farmers’ Voices

One farmer shared:
“We are excited to plant high-end produce, apart from spinach, kale, and cabbages, because we finally have a reliable market for it.”

Another added:
TAWI is paying on time, which makes us happy and motivated to be part of the project.

These testimonials highlight the importance of structured market engagement and value chain integration, enabling smallholder farmers to earn more from their produce while reducing post-harvest losses.

The Path Forward

The TBYB cooling hub launch is just the beginning. With the success of this initiative, ACTS, CCN, and LHFCSL envision expanding sustainable cooling solutions to more farming communities across Kenya. Indeed, the lessons learned from the initiative will be critical in the extension of the TBYB approach beyond Kenya. The TBYB initiative is not just about cooling—it’s about empowering farmers, transforming food systems, and securing livelihoods for future generations.

Photos from the event. (Flickr)

ACTS will convene and participate in strategic sessions across the three-day event, each designed to address Africa’s development priorities through the lens of research, policy, and practical innovation. Below is a snapshot of ACTS-led engagements that will shape the conference narrative:

1. Plenary Session: The Status of Innovation in Africa and Progress Towards Agenda 2063

🗓 6 May 2025, 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Hyatt Regency, Nairobi

In partnership with AUDA-NEPAD, ACTS co-organizes this high-level plenary examining Africa’s innovation trajectory in the context of the African Union’s Agenda 2063. Featuring regional innovation leaders, the session will unpack the state of STI systems, discuss policy harmonization, and highlight strategic pathways to enhance innovation-led development.

Panelists

• Prof. Philippe K. Mawoko, Former Executive Secretary, African Observatory for Science, Technology and Innovation (AOSTI), Congo
• Prof. Almamy Konte, Former Executive Director of the African observatory of STI (AOSTI) in Malabo, Senegal
• Dr. Roselida Owour, Director of Research Development, Ministry of Education, Kenya
• Prof. Tom Ogada, Executive Director, ACTS, Kenya
• Prof. Walter Oyawa, Director General, National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation, Kenya
• Dr. Martin Ongol, Ag. Executive Secretary, Uganda National Council for Science and Technology, Uganda
  Moderator: Dr. Ann Kingiri, Director of Research and Innovation, ACTS, Kenya

2. Side Session: AI in Africa – Balancing Breakthroughs and Risks

🗓 6 May 2025, 2:00 – 3:15 PM
📍 Hyatt Regency, Nairobi

As AI continues to disrupt global systems, ACTS leads a vital conversation on how African countries can harness its benefits while managing inherent risks. This session explores the ethical, regulatory, and workforce implications of AI on a continent rich with innovation and youth potential. Experts from academia, policy, and civil society will share insights into navigating Africa’s AI future responsibly.

Panelists/Guest Speakers

• Hon. John Kiarie – Dagoretti South Member of Parliament | Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation.
• Prof. Tom Migun Ogada – Executive Director, African Centre for Technology Studies
• Dr. George Musumba – Dean, School of Computer Science and Information Technology and Senior Lecturer | Thematic Leader in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning – Dedan Kimathi University of Science and Technology
• Dr. Lawrence Nderu – Chairman, Dept. of Computing – JKUAT | Founder, JHUB Africa
• Florence Anyango Ogonjo – Tech Policy Researcher, Advocate of the High Court of Kenya | Research Fellow for the AI Policy Center at the Center for Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law (CIPIT) at Strathmore University
• Brian Omwenga – Community Of Practice
• Dr. Winston Ojenge – Senior Research Fellow, African Centre for Technology Studies
• Grace Leah Okundi – Research Fellow, African Centre for Technology Studies

3. Session Title: Wealth Creation
Presentation: Evidence for informing optimization and scaling of youth and women led clean energy enterprises and business models in Kenya

🗓 6 May 2025, 2:00 – 3:15 PM
📍 Hyatt Regency, Nairobi

In this session, ACTS highlights evidence from clean energy projects led by youth and women in Kenya, offering scalable business models that contribute to local economic empowerment and climate resilience. Dr. Ann Kingiri, Director of Research and Innovation at ACTS, presents key findings and implications for national energy and enterprise policy.

4. Session Title: Food Production
Presentation: A data-driven approach in sustainable cold chain innovation for food loss reduction

🗓 6 May 2025, 2:00 – 3:15 PM
📍 Hyatt Regency, Nairobi

In this session, ACTS presents innovative, data-driven solutions to one of Africa’s most persistent agricultural challenges: post-harvest food loss. Daniel Musyoka, Research Fellow at ACTS, showcases how sustainable cold chain technologies can be optimized through data insights to preserve perishable produce, improve food security, and support value chain efficiency. The session will offer actionable strategies for integrating cold chain innovations into smallholder systems and national food policies.

4. Side Session: Commercialization of Research and Innovations through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)

🗓 7 May 2025, 7:15 – 8:45 AM
📍 Hyatt Regency, Nairobi

African research often fails to reach commercial markets. This session explores how Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) can unlock the latent value of research by aligning public institutional capacity with private sector agility. With insights from IDRC, KeNIA, UNCST, and Neu-Ulm University, the discussion will outline practical strategies to strengthen Africa’s innovation ecosystems.

Panelists/Guest Speakers

• Prof. Tom Migun Ogada, Executive Director, African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)
• Dr. Tonny Omwansa – CEO, Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA)
• Ms. Clarisse Mideva, Research Fellow, African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)
• Ms. Agnes Tsuma, Research and Innovation Systems for Africa (RISA)
• Dr. Agnes Lutomiah, Head STIKS Programme, African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)
• Mr. Alfred Oduor, Research Fellow, African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)
• Dr. Ellie Osir, International Development Research Centre (IDRC)
• Prof. Almamy Konte, Former Executive Director of the African observatory of STI (AOSTI) in Malabo, Senegal
• Dr. Martin Ongol, Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST)
• Dr. Nicholas Odongo, Deputy Head STIKS Programme, African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)

5. Side Session: Harnessing Evidence for an Inclusive Green and Digital Future of Work in Africa

🗓 7 May 2025, 3:45 – 5:00 PM
📍 Hyatt Regency, Nairobi

As Africa embraces green and digital transitions, ACTS leads a session addressing the risks of exclusion and inequality. Drawing on research from the Green and Digital Innovation Hub (gDIH)—supported by GIZ—panelists will present data-driven insights on creating inclusive job opportunities, especially for youth, women, and the informal workforce, within the continent’s evolving economic landscape.

Panelists/Guest Speakers

• Dr. Julius Gatune – Maastricht School of Management – Guest Speaker
• Katharina Mengede – Head of Digital Economy, GIZ
• Kudzai M. Mubaiwa – Green and Digital Transition Advisor, GIZ
• Dr. Caroline Mbaya, Head GYID Programme, African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)
• Dr. Eunice Omwoyo, Research Fellow, African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)
• Rebecca Muiruri, gDIH Innovator

Stay connected with us during the conference via www.acts-net.org and follow updates on social media through #Evi4Dev2025.

Click here to register

The Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) of the African Union (AU) has been the blueprint driving agricultural transformation across the continent and is reviewed every 10 years. CAADP sets a bold action agenda with targets to improve food security and nutrition; increase agricultural productivity; reduce post-harvest losses; increase incomes in farming-based economies; increase public investment; improve rural infrastructure; and stimulate investment in agriculture research, innovation and scaling of adoption.

African Heads of State met recently (January 9^th – 11^th) in Kampala, Uganda, to consider the next 10-year period and endorsed the Strategy and Action Plan: 2026-2035, now referred to as the Kampala CAADP Declaration. The latter is themed “Advancing Africa’s Inclusive Agrifood Systems Transformation for Sustainable Economic Growth and Shared Prosperity” and puts a spotlight on the imperative for building future proof, resilient agrifood systems in sub-Sahara Africa (SSA).

The Hot Reality 

A recent seminal report published by the Centre for Sustainable Cooling (2024) – The Hot Reality: Living in a +50°C World – highlights how rising seasonal temperatures and an increased frequency in the occurrence of prolonged extreme heat events, as well as droughts and changes in precipitation patterns, affect agricultural productivity. The impact of this reality is already visible, with many SSA nations facing food insecurity. According to the FAO State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2023 report, the prevalence of severe food insecurity in the SSA population in 2022 was 26% compared to 20% in 2014, thereby pointing to a reverse in previous gains. Additionally, climate change risks including erratic weather, drought, and floods, are significantly impacting the agriculture-based livelihoods of rural populations, particularly in the Global South. To address such a stark reality, there is an urgent need to implement suitable adaptation strategies that build more resilient and sustainable food systems and related supply chains.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Sixth Assessment Report notes that the rate of warming in African countries has been approximately 0.2°C to 0.5°C per decade, which is faster than the global average of approximately 0.18°C¹ observed over recent decades. Such warming trends have informed the drive toward rolling out climate smart agriculture initiatives in the region. These are characterized by a basket of solutions, such as breeding for drought tolerance, including short maturing crops that are better adapted to associated stresses, increased temperature, and emergent pests and diseases. The goal is to address the food production challenges in the region that are exacerbated by climate change risks.

Food saved is as important as food produced 

Paradoxically, while addressing productivity yields SSA experiences high levels of food loss and waste – typically up to 50%² of food produce in various value chains is lost between the point of production and the consumer, and in some contexts the magnitude is higher. This is further exacerbating the prevalence of food insecurity and malnutrition while simultaneously contributing to climate change risks due to emissions from the loss, and emphasizes the fact that food saved is as important as food produced. However, despite the latter, adaptation efforts have been biased towards the production node of agrifood systems with much less attention given to postharvest management, including loss and waste reduction. Indeed, the AU developed a Postharvest Loss Management Strategy (AU-PHLMS) under CAADP, as the policy framework aimed at reducing the continent’s postharvest food losses by 50 percent by 2025³, yet reducing yield gaps and increasing food production remain the primary focus of participating governments. Given that interventions to eliminate food loss and waste have not been prioritized, it is difficult to track progress toward such targets. 

Reducing food loss and waste by applying solutions that will enhance the efficiency of food supply chains and contribute to resilient food systems is recognized as an important strategy to help end hunger and address malnutrition across Africa. Options that can reduce post-production losses, such as cooling and cold-chain systems, are being promoted, but their adoption remains a challenge. The lack of effective cold-chain is notably a key gap and exacerbates this challenge by contributing an estimated loss of 12 per cent of the total food produced globally⁴. Limited access to sustainable cold-chain technologies, especially by smallholder farmers who make up the majority of SSA producers, is particularly glaring.

A systems level approach 

The ‘Hot Reality’ report points to several limiting factors that have contributed to the access gaps in smallholder dominated food systems. These relate to capital costs, the relatively high energy (electricity) demand of most of the equipment available in the marketplace, and the use of high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants, some of which are in the process of being phased out. This makes access to cooling and cold-chain technologies expensive to manage and in some cases contributes to the sustainability challenges. Hence there is a need for innovating low cost and low carbon technology options that are a better fit with the specifics of Africa’s context in enhancing adaptation and mitigation goals.

While there is increasing investment directed at closing the cold-chain access gap for smallholder based food systems, research shows that most of these efforts have resulted in ‘white elephants’. The latter being largely due to a fragment approach in deploying the solutions which focuses mainly on the technology – particularly cold storage – without considering other elements of the chain, connectivity, or the specific needs and usage context. The African Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Cooling and Cold Chain (ACES), which is a component of the Clean Cooling Network, adopts a systems approach to catalyse access to sustainable cold-chain solutions. By taking this approach, ACES aims to develop and fine-tuning scalable and inclusive models for increasing access to resilient, efficient and climate-friendly cooling and cold-chain technology to address food loss and waste, as well as enhance smallholders’ livelihoods. The approach integrates best fit sustainable cold-chain solutions with requisite skills development to make the technology function optimally. Importantly, it also addresses the gender equitable and socially inclusive business models necessary to demonstrate the investment case for such critical, high-cost infrastructure. 

Investing in technology and business models to make sustainable cold-chains work for smallholders farming communities, and thereby help build more resilient food systems in Africa, calls for better coordination in policy development and implementation that cuts across sectors including agriculture, energy, environment, trade, education among others. There is a pressing need to refocus policy attention and improve guidance on how best to inject the requisite investment at the different nodes in the food system, particularly in relation to climate change and the adaptation of food storage, processing, transportation, distribution, and marketing.

Initiatives such as ACES aim to develop the evidence base that can provide policy guidance on how to direct public and private investment for targeting current and emerging food system issues in a warming world. The upcoming All Africa Post Harvest Congress and Exhibition hosted by the African Union Commission, to be held in September 2025, provides a good platform to advance the continental agenda for enabling access of sustainable cold-chains, especially for the millions of smallholder farmers who are the backbone of resilient food systems.

• FAO, UNEP. 2022. Sustainable Food Cold Chains: Opportunities, Challenges and the Way forward 
• https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg2/downloads/report/IPCC_AR6_WGII_Chapter09.pdf 
• FAO. 2019. The State of Food and Agriculture 2019. Moving forward on food loss and waste reduction. Rome.  
• African Union Commission .2018. Post harvest loss management strategy 

Background

The Evidence for Informing Scaling And Impact In Youth And Women- Led Clean Energy Enterprises in Africa (EVI-SICEE) project, implemented over the past one and a half year, aims to address systemic opportunities and barriers faced by women and youth in accessing entrepreneurial opportunities within the clean energy innovation ecosystem (CIE). Women and youth form a significant part of the informal, small, and medium enterprises (SMEs) driving economic development in Africa. However, they remain disproportionately vulnerable to external shocks like climate change and global economic crises.

Structural and socio-cultural challenges further limit their access to finance, markets, and training, hindering their ability to grow businesses compared to adult men. This issue is compounded by Africa’s rapidly growing youth population, which requires sustainable employment opportunities. Through joined-up action research with actors in the CIE ecosystem, the EVI-SICEE project seeks to provide evidence-based strategies for scaling promising youth- and women-led clean energy enterprises for transformative impact.

Introduction

A learning workshop was held over two days, 6th and 7th February 2025, at the ICIPE campus, Duduville, Kasarani in Nairobi. It brought together the EVI-SICEE project team from the four African countries, Kenya, Uganda, Malawi and South Africa, along with Kenya’s clean energy ecosystem stakeholders, advisory board members, researchers, entrepreneurs, and policy actors.

The workshop aimed to create an interactive space to reflect on the first year of project implementation, share and validate key research findings from Kenya, and co-create knowledge to optimize and scale youth- and women-led clean energy enterprises. The engagement sought to deepen understanding of systemic factors influencing access to entrepreneurial opportunities in clean energy innovation.

This blog explores insights from a Kenyan stakeholders’ panel discussion moderated by Dr. Mbaya featuring the following esteemed panelists:

• Daniel Obonyo – General Secretary of the Improved Stoves Association of Kenya (ISAK), representing 3,700 members across 37 counties. ISAC focuses on capacity-building for producers, marketers, and fabricators in the clean cooking value chain, with a strong emphasis on women and youth (60% of its membership).
• Abigail Wairua – Research Assistant and Mechanical Engineer at Dedan Kimathi University’s Bekut Center for Energy Studies. Her team works on research, development, design, testing, piloting, and training in energy technologies.
• Vincent Ogaya – Representative from the Kenya Climate Innovation Center (KCIC), specializing in business incubation and acceleration for climate innovations. KCIC supports startups with business advisory services, financing, and mentorship.
• Matthew Matenga – Representative from Yehu Microfinance, which operates in Kenya’s coastal region. Yehu provides innovative funding models like group lending to empower women and youth in clean energy adoption.

Ongoing Panel discussions: From Left, Matthew Matenga, Vincent Ogaya, Abigail Wairua, Daniel Obonyo and Dr. Caroline Mbaya

Key Takeaways from the Panel Discussion

The session provided a platform for sharing experiences and strategies around:

• Integration of Research, Policy, and Business for Clean Energy Growth
• Ensuring Quality Standards and Innovation in Clean Cooking Technologies
• Financial and Business Support for Women and Youth Entrepreneurs
• Capacity-Building, Mentorship, and Scaling Innovations
• Addressing Gender-Specific Challenges in the Clean Energy Sector

Contributions of Stakeholders

Each panelist highlighted their unique contributions:

• ISAK promotes quality standards for clean cookstoves through partnerships with organizations like the Clean Cookstove Association of Kenya (CCK). They also focus on capacity-building programs to bridge the energy property gap.
• Dedan Kimathi University supports innovators by mechanizing production processes for clean energy technologies like cookstoves. For example, they developed tools such as pulverizers and mixers to improve efficiency in fabricating clay liners.
• KCIC facilitates the commercialization of climate innovations by providing business advisory services, financing (grants or loans), and mentorship programs tailored to women and youth.
• Yehu Microfinance empowers women and youth through group lending models for solar products and improved stoves. They also provide training to ensure clients understand the benefits of clean energy technologies.

Collaboration Benefits

Participation in forums like this workshop fosters collaboration by:

1. Networking Opportunities: Helping stakeholders connect with academia, government, and civil society for strategic partnerships.
2. Policy Updates: Keeping stakeholders informed about current policies to align interventions with national priorities.
3. Knowledge Sharing: Using research insights to inform targeted interventions addressing skills gaps or financing needs.

For instance, ISAK benefits from partnerships with CCAK to ensure that their members produce stoves meeting market standards. Similarly, KCIC uses research findings to refine its support for enterprises.

Challenges Faced by Women and Youth

Panelists identified several barriers:

• Access to Capital: Women and youth often lack collateral to secure loans.
• Skills Gaps: Limited technical expertise hinders scaling innovations.
• Gender Biases: Traditional perceptions discourage participation in male-dominated sectors like engineering or climate technology.

To address these challenges, organizations like KCIC provide mentorship programs that match women entrepreneurs with female mentors who have succeeded in similar fields.

Innovative Funding Models

Yehu Microfinance’s group lending model was highlighted:

• Women form self-help groups (chamas) to co-guarantee loans from savings.
• Loans are used for solar products or improved stoves with minimal interest rates.
• Training empowers clients with knowledge of clean energy technologies before adoption.

Standards Maintenance

ISAK maintains quality standards by:

• Collaborating with CCAK for efficiency testing protocols training.
• Working with research institutions for certification to meet market requirements.

Mentorship for Scaling

KCIC integrates mentorship by:

• Matching entrepreneurs with experts based on development stage.
• Focusing on scalability and innovation potential.
• Providing structured practical experience under seasoned professionals.

Carbon Financing

Though emerging and faced with hesitancy due to new regulations, carbon financing holds potential to provide additional resources for scaling clean energy solutions.

Successful Collaborations

An example shared was the project between Dedan Kimathi University and Fairtrade Africa involving training entrepreneurs in mechanizing cookstove production and developing tools for efficiency.

Proposed Strategies for Greater Impact

To address these challenges and enhance opportunities for women and youth in Kenya’s clean energy sector, the following strategies are proposed:

1. Foster Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration among research, private sector, government, and communities.
2. Promote Inclusive Financing Models tailored for women- and youth-led enterprises.
3. Enhance Capacity-Building Programs with mentoring and connecting entrepreneurs with investors.
4. Adopt Gender-Inclusive Policies to overcome structural barriers and promote participation.

In conclusion, the discussion highlighted the critical role of collaboration among stakeholders in advancing clean energy solutions. By addressing challenges like access to capital, skills gaps, and quality standards, these organizations are paving the way for a more sustainable future while empowering women and youth in the process. By implementing these strategies on a larger scale, Kenya can accelerate its transition to sustainable clean energy while empowering its most vulnerable populations women and youth.

Invitation for Feedback 

What are your thoughts on these strategies? How can we collectively enhance opportunities for women and youth in Kenya’s clean energy sector? Share your ideas or connect with us to explore collaborative opportunities!