Kenya is poised to dedicate 2% of its GDP (~Sh358 billion annually) to science, research, technology, and innovation (STI), up from the current 0.8%, as guided by the STI Act, 2013.
The initiative aims to shift Kenya from a commodity-driven to a knowledge-based economy, boosting productivity, innovation, and competitiveness. Key allocations include:
30% to national research institutions for mission-oriented projects.
35% to public universities for research, labs, and innovation hubs.
15% for competitive grants supporting startups, universities, and public-private collaborations.
10% for shared national research infrastructure.
7% for commercialization, incubators, and technology transfer.
3% to foster public-private partnerships and science diplomacy.
The move targets high-skill job creation, startup growth, import substitution, climate-resilient agriculture, health innovations, and homegrown clean technologies.
The message is clear: investing in innovation is not a cost, but a long-term economic strategy that strengthens Kenya’s self-reliance, productivity, and global competitiveness.
