Mount Kenya University (MKU) has reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence and innovation by allocating Ksh30 million in research and innovation grants this year. The funding aims to support faculty and student research, facilitating conference participation and peer-reviewed publications.
A significant portion of this initiative is focused on maritime research and innovation, strengthening MKU’s role in advancing Kenya’s Blue Economy. This announcement was made during the Blue Economy Research and Innovation Conference held at MKU’s Mombasa Campus, where scholars, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders gathered to explore sustainable solutions for Kenya’s ocean resources. Themed “Research, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation for a Resilient Blue Economy,” the event underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in harnessing marine resources effectively.
Dr. Henry Yatich, Principal of the College of Graduate Studies and Research, emphasized the role of global partnerships in driving innovation. He highlighted organizations such as DAAD and Africa Meets Bavaria as key contributors to expanding opportunities for students in the research space. Echoing this sentiment, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academics and Research Affairs, Dr. Mercyline Kamande, inaugurated the conference, stressing the Blue Economy’s potential to address critical issues such as unemployment, environmental conservation, and food security. She encouraged students to transform their research findings into viable, market-ready innovations.
Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Stanley Ndege Chai, Secretary of Shipping & Logistics at the Executive Office of President William Ruto, discussed Kenya’s legislative advancements in the Blue Economy sector. He pointed out the country’s underutilization of its vast ocean resources, particularly in deep-sea fishing, which holds a global market potential of $20 billion. To address legal and regulatory gaps in maritime governance, he urged MKU to introduce a Maritime Law program that would tackle issues such as piracy, illegal fishing, and maritime dispute resolution.
With the allocation of Ksh30 million and a renewed research focus on the Blue Economy, MKU is setting a strong foundation for groundbreaking research and sustainable development. This initiative not only enhances Kenya’s academic landscape but also fosters economic growth and environmental sustainability in the maritime sector.
