Kenya's Innovation fair kicks off in Nairobi, Friday

By James Ratemo

Over 60 engineers, artists and designers will convene in Nairobi on Friday to show case a cross section of latest and most creative innovations in Africa.

The opening of the two-day event will coincide

with Kenya’s newest official holiday, "Signing Day" when President Kibaki shall promulgate the new constitution.

Over 60 makers with backgrounds in engineering, design and artisan crafts will display their latest inventions in an effort to shine a spotlight on innovation and ingenuity as the way forward in Africa.

Organised by Maker Faire Africa (MFA) the event will be held at the University of Nairobi.

"We’re excited to be coming together with Kenyans to celebrate the signing of their constitution…the fair is free and open to the public on both Friday and Saturday from 10am to 6pm and inventions will be demonstrated and put to work," said Emeka Okafor, curator of MFA and Director of TEDAfrica.

"We have makers coming from all over Kenya to show their inventions such as time saving devices for agriculture and alternative energy sources," said Emer Beamer, a member of MFA’s organizing team and R&D Director for Butterfly Works."

"We intend to dispel the negative reinforcement that pervades young African’s career choices and instead give center stage to the tremendous opportunities found through creative risk-taking, doing, and the making of things," argued Okafor.　

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