Nakuru: The National Research Fund (NRF), in collaboration with Egerton University, is gearing up to host the second edition of the Kenya National Research Festival (KNRF) with a focus on advancing sustainable agriculture and food security. The event is scheduled to take place from August 18th to August 22nd, bringing together researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators.
According to Kenya News Agency, the festival is themed 'Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security, Empowering Communities through Research, Science, Technology and Innovation'. Governor Susan Kihika of Nakuru County has assured that preparations are underway to ensure active participation from local farmers, researchers, students, and county officials. The governor noted that the event aims to enhance research uptake, foster inter-county partnerships, and support strategies for food and nutrition security.
Governor Kihika emphasized the importance of research and education in driving agricultural transformation and economic growth, highlighting the event as a milestone for fostering knowledge exchange within the research community. She expressed her support for the initiative, noting that the platform would promote discussions, synergies, and collaborations both domestically and internationally.
According to the National Research Fund, the festival will cover thematic areas beyond agriculture, including climate change, food nutrition, economic resilience, and technology adoption at the grassroots level. Additionally, counties will share experiences on leveraging research for sustainable development and service delivery.
Egerton University has been selected to co-host the event following a strategic meeting at its Njoro Main Campus. The university's Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bernard Aduda, explained that the festival aims to highlight Kenya's research and innovation environment by showcasing projects and opportunities for scientists at various levels. Researchers from TVET institutions, undergraduates, graduates, postgraduates, and lead researchers have been invited to submit abstracts and poster presentations.
Professor Aduda expressed satisfaction with the partnership, underscoring Egerton University's commitment to advancing research and innovation, particularly in agriculture and food security. He noted that moving the event to Nakuru strengthens the university's role as a research hub.
The inaugural festival was hosted by NRF in Nairobi from August 19th to August 23, 2024. The National Research Fund, established under the Science, Technology and Innovation Act No. 28 of 2013, is tasked with managing financial resources to facilitate research for advancing science, technology, and innovation.
NRF Chief Executive Officer Prof. Dickson Andala stated that the Kenya National Research Festival aims to increase awareness of research activities in the country and beyond, focusing on initiatives aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The festival will feature exhibitions, panel discussions, technical workshops, and farmer engagement forums, creating opportunities for researchers, farmers, and policymakers.
Overall, the National Research Festival is seen as a milestone for public engagement with science, advocating for dialogue, bringing together diverse participants, and enhancing learning and skills.