By Robert Mutasi 
More than 2,500 young people from the North Rift are expected to take part in the fourth edition of the Eldoret City Innovation Week as organisers seek to promote technology, enterprise and sustainability as avenues for economic growth.
The week-long event will be held at Zion Mall and is expected to bring together young innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, investors, universities, TVET institutions, government officials, development partners and representatives from various industries.
Organising committee chairperson Douglas Maina said the event has continued to expand since it was launched, providing young people with a platform to present their ideas and establish links with potential investors and partners.
Speaking during a media breakfast ahead of the launch, Maina said the initiative was designed to help innovators turn their ideas into enterprises while creating opportunities for young people within the region.
“The Innovation Week has grown steadily since its founding to become one of the region’s most anticipated platforms for enterprise, technology and youth development,” Maina said.
The 2026 edition will be held under the theme, “Innovating the North Rift: Driving Inclusive Growth Through Technology, Enterprise & Sustainability.”
Maina said the organisers were deliberately bringing together the private sector, government and young people to encourage investment in new enterprises and support the creation of jobs within the North Rift.
A major addition to this year’s programme will be the Youth Dome, which will provide a dedicated space for youth talent, the creative economy, mentorship and skills development.
The organisers said the Youth Dome will host mentorship programmes, skills masterclasses, career and enterprise clinics, as well as innovation pitches and talent showcases.
The sessions are expected to give young people an opportunity to interact directly with mentors, professionals and other players in the innovation ecosystem.
The programme will also feature discussions and engagements covering sectors such as technology, agriculture, healthcare, finance, education and public service.
According to the organisers, the event will give entrepreneurs and innovators an opportunity to showcase their work while encouraging partnerships between government, businesses, investors and young people.
The fourth edition will culminate on October 9, with Secretary for ICT, E-Government and the Digital Economy Mary Kerema expected to attend as the chief guest.
Maina urged businesses, development partners and members of the public to support the initiative and help expand its reach to more young people across the North Rift.
He said continued partnerships would be important in ensuring that young innovators gain access to the networks, skills and opportunities needed to develop their ideas into sustainable ventures.