Dr. Tonny Omwansa, CEO, Kenya National Innovation Agency and Mr. Gordon Odundo, KCDF Board Vice Chair (holding the cheque), during the award of the finalists of the second edition of the KCDF Young Environmentalist Innovation Challenge in Nairobi.
A new generation of Kenyan changemakers is making waves in the fight against climate change; armed not with protests, but with practical solutions.
On Thursday, August 14, the Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF) awarded a total of Sh53 million in grants to 10 youth-led organisations and two individuals who are pioneering transformative environmental innovations.
The awards are part of the Young Environmentalist Innovation Challenge (YEIC).
The competition, which received more than 400 applications, is designed to support young people aged 15–35 who are building scalable, community-driven solutions to Kenya’s pressing environmental challenges.
Finalists were selected following a rigorous evaluation process by a panel of expert judges.
“These young innovators are not just imagining a greener future—they are building it,” said KCDF in a statement.
“Their work is a testament to the power of youth-led solutions that combine social impact with economic viability.”
The winning ventures presented ideas spanning clean energy, circular economy, climate-smart agriculture, and technology-driven conservation.
L-R: Mr. Royford Mutegi and Ms. Christine Ager from Vermi-Farm Initiative, a finalist of the Young Environmentalist Innovation Challenge, receiving a certificate from Ms. Ketaki Sheth, KCDF Board Director
Winners
MOMA Renewable Energy (Kisii)
Converts organic food waste into clean-burning bioethanol, addressing air pollution and food waste while promoting public health and economic empowerment.
Vermi-Farm Initiative Limited (Meru)
Supports smallholder farmers—especially women and youth—through sustainable agriculture, climate adaptation, and financial inclusion.
M-Taka Waste Solutions Limited (Kisumu)
Connects community members across the waste value chain, educating them on sustainable practices and improving livelihoods.
Eco Nasi Limited (Machakos)
Uses pineapple pulp waste to develop eco-friendly materials, advancing circular design rooted in local resources.
Timao Group (Nairobi)
Manufactures affordable building materials from plastic waste, reducing pollution and enhancing access to sustainable housing.
Megagas Alternative Energy Enterprise LTD (Nairobi)
A cleantech start-up that transforms plastic waste into clean cooking gas for low-income households using patented technology.
Pollen Patrollers Limited (Kiambu)
Offers high-quality pollination services to farmers, increasing crop yields and supporting biodiversity.
Zalika Greentech Limited (Nairobi)
A woman-led enterprise focused on renewable energy solutions and off-grid electrification.
Adumu Limited (Nairobi)
Innovates in sustainable fashion by creating footwear and accessories from recycled materials.
CropScan Smart Farming Technologies (Nairobi)
Leverages artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things to help farmers optimize yields and build climate resilience.
KCDF launches the third edition of the Young Environmentalist Innovation Challenge in Nairobi.
Erick Sankale Olkiado
Nthuku Mumo Osoro
These individuals were honoured for their outstanding grassroots environmental efforts and potential for national impact.
Next Edition: Scaling what works
KCDF also announced the launch of the third edition of YEIC, themed “Scaling Innovations for Environmental Impact.” This round will focus on expanding proven community-based solutions that are ready for scale.
Priority areas include: Climate resilience, ecosystem restoration, renewable energy and circular economy.
As Kenya grapples with the realities of climate change, youth-led innovation is emerging as a vital force in shaping the country's sustainable future.
From smart farming apps to clean energy solutions, the YEIC finalists are demonstrating that the fight for the planet is not just about activism—it's about action.
And in the hands of Kenya’s young environmental entrepreneurs, the future looks bright—and green.
