NAIROBI: The Kenyan government has unveiled a new award; Kenya Science Technology and Innovation (KESTI), aimed at recognizing contributions made by local innovators towards economic development. The awards are will be organized by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology (MOHEST) and will be launched at the National Science and Technology Week event in early May. MOHEST stated that: “The Kenya Vision 2030 recognizes Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) as enabling and supporting platforms for sustainable national development.” The award advocates the public and local science communities to participate in scientific activities that will help to uncover solutions to problems affecting the country. MOHEST added that in order to participate, applicants must have attained brilliant achievements in scientific research, discoveries and accomplishments. In addition to that, the scientific innovation that seeks to address current challenges and one that will be in line with the country's Vision 2030 will be given utmost priority. Two major categories have been listed for the award, these include: Life and Earth Sciences and Basic Sciences and Technology and Innovation. The two categories are further subdivided into three categories including: Young Scientist Award worth approximately KSh500,000, Women Scientist Award worth approximately KSh1 million and the best overall Scientist Award worth approximately KSh1.5 million.
