BioAfri Solutions, a dynamic innovation team from Maasai Mara University, emerged as the overall winner of the just-concluded Ignite Kenya Innovation Startup Challenge under the E4Impact Incubation Programme.
The grand finale, held today at the E4Impact Entrepreneurship Centre in Karen, Nairobi, saw BioAfri Solns claim first place among 31 finalists, earning a cash prize of Sh 300,000. Another innovation from the university—the Portable Traditional Oven—secured an impressive fourth position, further highlighting Maasai Mara University’s growing reputation in Kenya’s innovation landscape.
The E4Impact Foundation organised the inaugural Ignite Kenya Bootcamp in collaboration with the Catholic University of Milan. Three innovation groups from Maasai Mara University—BioAfri Solns, led by Stacy Wangui; the Portable Traditional Oven, by Ruth Wangui; and Smart Fundi, by Onesmus Kiprotich—were shortlisted to take part in this highly competitive challenge.
The programme unfolded in two phases: the first from 2nd to October 4, 2025, and the second from 11th to 13th November 2025, both hosted at the E4Impact Entrepreneurship Centre in Karen.
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From an initial pool of over 400 applicants drawn from universities and startups across Kenya, only 31 finalists progressed to the final Bootcamp. Participants underwent rigorous training to strengthen the capacity of youth-led enterprises and prepare them to become investment-ready. Key sessions covered Design Thinking, the Business Model Canvas (BMC), financial planning, go-to-market strategies, and effective innovation pitching to investors.
Beyond the formal training, the Bootcamp offered mentorship, networking, and peer-learning opportunities that enabled participants to refine their business ideas and enhance their entrepreneurial skills. These engagements empowered innovators to better position their ventures for commercialisation and long-term growth.
The challenge concluded with a high-stakes pitching session in which startups were evaluated on their business viability and presentations to the judges. BioAfri Solns distinguished itself through its strong value proposition, solid business model, and scalable impact potential.
The outstanding performance of the Maasai Mara University teams underscores the institution’s dedication to fostering innovation and nurturing entrepreneurial talent across the region.
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