Lamu: Lamu County's Department of Public Service Management has been internationally recognized after being shortlisted as one of the world's leading innovators in scientific and social impact at the upcoming Falling Walls Science Summit 2025, set to take place in Berlin, Germany this November.
According to Kenya News Agency, this accolade is largely attributed to Shee Kupi, a senior official within the department, who has been lauded for his leadership in crafting innovative frameworks for peacebuilding and disaster management. These frameworks are specifically designed for vulnerable, conflict-affected communities along Kenya's northern coast. Notably, Lamu County is the only devolved government entity among a list of 30 globally shortlisted institutions, which includes prestigious universities such as Stanford, Princeton, McGill, and the University of Geneva. This marks a significant achievement for a rural Kenyan county often recognized more for its marginalization than its innovation.
In an interview following the announcement, Kupi highlighted the broader significance of the nomination for Africa, emphasizing that African-led solutions, grounded in local realities, can effectively address global challenges like violent extremism and disaster fragility. He expressed his honor in representing both Lamu County and the country on such a transformative platform.
The Falling Walls Summit is an annual event celebrating breakthroughs in science and society, bringing together thought leaders, researchers, and innovators from around the world. Kupi noted that Lamu's inclusion and recognition not only raise the county's international profile but also highlight the crucial role of local governance and African innovation in tackling global issues.
He also mentioned that under Governor Issa Timamy's administration, Lamu County has made significant progress in developing a Disaster Management and Preparedness Policy, which is being adopted by other counties in Kenya. Lamu was the first county to establish a fully operational County Emergency Operation Centre, which has successfully mitigated at least five major disasters since its inception in 2023, including severe drought, a cholera outbreak, and severe flooding.
Governor Timamy echoed these sentiments, praising Kupi and the Department of Disaster Management and Peacebuilding for their innovative approaches to peacebuilding and disaster management in marginalized areas like the Boni region.