Students from the University of Nairobi (UON) emerged victorious in Unilever’s prestigious ‘Great Millet Conquest’ innovation challenge. Launched in February 2024, this Sh2 billion initiative aimed at promoting the innovative localisation of millet products into a sustainable and nutritious staple in Kenyan diets.
The competition, which attracted 209 submissions from across the country, culminated in a grand awards ceremony where the top winners were feted with substantial cash prizes and career-advancing opportunities. The first-place winner received a Sh500,000 cash prize, while the second and third runners-up were awarded Sh250,000 and Sh100,000, respectively. These winners will not only serve as millet ambassadors but will also gain the invaluable experience of working with the Unilever Future Leaders programme.
Dr. Calistus Kundu, the Director for Food and Crops, officiated the event and underscored the importance of such initiatives in transforming Kenyan agriculture. “Kenya’s millet production is currently below average. Innovations like these are crucial in revolutionising our diets and ensuring food security. The government is committed to supporting sustainable projects that foster climate-resilient agriculture.”
Unilever’s ‘Great Millet Conquest’ is a significant stride towards enhancing the agricultural sector’s resilience and sustainability. Millet, a drought-resistant crop, holds immense potential in addressing food security challenges exacerbated by climate change. By localising the production and consumption of millet, Kenya can develop a robust nutritional base while also promoting environmentally friendly farming practices.
The winning students’ innovative solutions showcased the versatility and potential of millet as a staple food. Their projects ranged from new millet-based food products to sustainable farming techniques, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to tackling nutritional deficiencies and agricultural sustainability.
The Unilever Future Leaders programme offers the winners a unique platform to further their careers and contribute to the agricultural sector’s transformation. As millet ambassadors, they will spearhead efforts to raise awareness about the benefits of millet and encourage its wider adoption in Kenyan diets.
The success of the ‘Great Millet Conquest’ underscores the critical role of innovation in addressing food security and promoting sustainable agriculture. It also highlights the talent and creativity of Kenya’s youth in driving positive change in their communities. With continued support from both the government and private sector, initiatives like this will pave the way for a more resilient and nutritionally secure future for Kenya.
