JHUB Africa Newsletter, Volume 1 Issue 1, December 2023.

JHUB Africa Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 1 December 2023

IN THIS ISSUE: A Message from the Project Lead Notable Achievements JHUB Events Challenges & Opportunities Prospective Incubation Projects Notable Moments 2023 Meet the Team Know Our Partners

Let's Dive in...

JHUB Africa Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 1

December 2023

ABOUT JHUB AFRICA We are a digital innovation hub (DIH) at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). We are hosted at the Department of Computing. Our focus is on nurturing innovations from inception to implementation through incubation and connection to the industry.

OUR VISION A one-stop hub offering a comprehensive array of digital solutions for societal needs.

OUR MISSION To drive sustainable digital transformation, providing accessible and impactful solutions for small and medium-scale farmers, traders, and enterprises.

A Message from the Project Lead Dear JHUB Africa Community,

As the year ends, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for each member of our vibrant and dynamic JHUB Africa community.

Your enthusiasm, dedication, and unwavering support have been the driving force behind our collective success. Your contributions, whether through your expertise, creativity, or collaboration, have been instrumental in advancing our mission. As we approach the holiday season, I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and your loved ones. May this festive season be filled with joy, warmth, and moments of togetherness that rejuvenate your spirit. In the coming year, I am excited about the possibilities for our community. Let us continue to learn, innovate, and grow together, empowering one another to reach new heights of excellence. Thank you for being an integral part of the JHUB Africa community. Your passion and commitment inspire us all. I look forward to the continued journey with you in the year ahead. I wish you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

Warm regards

Dr Lawrence Nderu is a lecturer and the Chairman at the Department of Computing, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).

December 2023

WELCOME TO THE INAUGURAL EDITION OF THE JHUB AFRICA NEWSLETTER JHUB AFRICA COMMUNITY, We're thrilled to unveil the inaugural edition of our newsletter, a window into the vibrant world of innovation at JHUB Africa . As a budding hub dedicated to exploring the frontiers of digital transformation, we're excited to share our journey, discoveries, and opportunities over the last few months with you.

Eng. BK Kariuki, IP Policy Expert at JKUAT, presents at the JHUB Africa strategy meeting on November 11, 2023.

In the face of climate change, innovation is the gateway to future transformation and sustainability

Challenges and Opportunities in 2023 In as much as JHUB Africa has faced challenges , just like any other startup, we have also had successful accomplishments which are worth noting. Meet the minds behind the breakthroughs. Hear the stories of our innovators, entrepreneurs, and change-makers who are here to shake the waves in the digital landscape. From the inaugural strategy meeting in November to the Stakeholder's Engagement Forum, JHUB Africa has had quite a remarkable set off.

Catherine Muraga, Managing Director , Microsoft ADC, speaks at a JHUB Africa Event, 18th November, 2023.

The Stakeholders Engagement Forum On 21st December, 2023, JHUB Africa hosted a Stakeholders Meeting and Innovations Pitching at the JKUAT Assembly Hall. The success of the event was painted on the faces and the magnitude of the attendees. Students, innovators, industry experts and partners at different capacities turned up in amazing levels.

Stakeholders and Innovators listen on during the engagement forum on 21st December, 2023

The vision of JHUB Africa can only be accomplished when we build healthy partnerships with all these stakeholders. The event was a one of a kind, and provided vital insights on what we could do better in future. Our emphasis remains on diversity and inclusivity in achieving the goals of the hub.

JHUB Africa Interests

December 2023

Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum & Idea Pitching

Attendees of the JHUB Africa Stakeholders Engagement Forum and Ideas Pitching on Thursday, 21st December, 2023. The event was held at the JKUAT Assembly Hall.

Attendees of the event engage in groups for the ideas pitching during the event. At JHUB Africa, we believe that everyone deserves to be heard, and experts are key part of the team to offer mentorship and support to achieve individual and team goals.

Prospective Projects for Incubation Discover the groundbreaking projects and initiatives shaping the future of technology. From AI-driven solutions to sustainable tech innovations, explore the visionary endeavors taking flight within our hub. In the last 3 months, work has been in progress to set up the hub and identify innovative ideas for incubation.

We held various meetings with stakeholders as a foundation to the hub.

Notably, the 18th and 19th November, 2023 were busy days for the JHUB Africa teams as we established our Draft Zero document, the strategic plan on how the hub will operate. Our discussions focused on expert strategy on Intellectual Property (IP) adaptation, business strategy, sustainability focus, governance structure, revenue models and leadership. We believe that failing to plan is planning to fail, and we are doing the right thing.

Dr. John Kinyuru, a co-founder of JHUB Africa, speaks at the Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum, Thursday 21, December, 2023.

We envision a future where the innovators and industry coexist without deception. Our expert teams, which range from technical knowledge to complex legal protection laws are here for a common goal - ensuring a healthy link between innovators and the industry.

Expertise and Interests in JHUB Africa

Panelists speaking at a recent JHUB Africa event. Calvin Kebati (right) speaks as Caine Wanjau (left) looks on. Second frame, technologist and entrepreneur Caine Wanjau speaks of his journey.

JHUB Africa has actively vouched for the best minds in diverse fields to guide the hub. Our experts share their knowledge on emerging trends, industry best practices, and strategies driving digital innovation forward.

We are also glad to have forged crucial friendships with different organizations and individuals in the tech space who are willing to support JHUB Africa in the drive toward digitization.

Innovation giants such as Bosch EA, Microsoft ADC and Zoho Corporation through their representatives in Kenya have pledged to walk and work with JHUB Africa to nurture innovations, skills and industry transformation through digital empowerment. These represent just a tip lf the iceberg, as we have more partners actively engaged to empower our mission, and we'd like to express our utmost appreciation.

Simon Iraya during the Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum. Simon is the Innovation Manager for Bosch Africa.

To the JHUB Africa Community, You're the heart of our hub! Discover stories from our diverse community members, spotlighting their achievements, experiences, and contributions.

Grace Kamau, an innovator presents an innovation idea as Florence Njau (right) looks on during the engagement during JHUB Africa events.

We believe in diversity and inclusion for transformation.

Irene Kimani (right) of KALRO, engages with other team members in a group during the Stakeholders’Engagement Forum, Thursday, 21st December, 2023.

Rose Ng’ang’a (left) and Mercy Kagunya (right) at the reception desk during a JHUB Africa event.

Upcoming Events Stay ahead of the curve! Get a sneak peek into our upcoming events, workshops, and seminars designed to foster learning, collaboration, and networking among digital trailblazers. In 2024, JHUB Africa will be more proactive with hackathons and competitions to foster innovations and creation of technologies.

Dr. William Murithi engages the audience at the Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum, Thursday, 21st December, 2023.

Dr. Lawrence Nderu welcomes delegates and the audience as he formally opened the Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum, Thursday, 21st December, 2023.

Other Notable Moments 2023 Dr. Lawrence Nderu (left) and Dr. William Murithi (second left) pose for a photo with Karsten Rönner (second right), Global Lead for Bosch's #GrowPlatform and Noumbessy Ghislain (right), Innovation Leader for Africa at Bosch after a dinner meeting, Thursday, 14th December, 2023.

The innovation giants share common interests in technology and are passionate to support growth from the grassroots level. Noumbessy Ghislain is part of JHUB Africa's Advisory Board.

Dr Lawrence Nderu (right) and Dr. Bochereau Laurent (left) pose for a photo after a meeting in Ethiopia. Dr. Bochereau is the EU Scientific Counselor to the African Union. Dr. Bochereau will be visiting JHUB Africa in April 2024 as an innovation enthusiast, courtesy of the meeting with the hub founder.

Dr. Lawrence Nderu (centre) with ZOHO Corporation representatives in Kenya. The team had a meeting to discuss potential collaboration opportunities between JHUB Africa and ZOHO Corporation in Kenya.

Meet the JHUB Africa Co-founders Lawrence Nderu, Ph.D Dr. Nderu is a co-founder of JHUB Africa and the Green Digital Innovation Hub (gDIH). His dedication to integrating AI into practical, real-world scenarios reflects his passion for harnessing technology to address societal challenges across Africa and the world. He is currently serving as the Chairman of the Department Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).

William Murithi Ph.D. FHEA. CMB Dr. Murithi is a global entrepreneur and strategist with experience in Asia, Africa and Europe. He is a co-founder of JHUB Africa and a board member bringing in rich experience in scaling ideas, investments, and careers, making a significant impact in the realms of entrepreneurship and innovation. He is also a consultant, supporting startups and professionals thrive through strategic positioning. Based at Strathmore University Business School, Dr. Murithi excels in curriculum design, training, and business model generation.

Rehema Ndeda, Ph.D Dr. Ndeda is a co-founder and board member of JHUB Africa. She is among the first women mechatronic engineers in Kenya with key interest in design optimization for sustainable innovation.

She is a lecturer at JKUAT, and her specialty combines engineering disciplines across electronics, computer, control, systems, and telecommunications. Her interest in agricultural technology and sustainable manufacturing processes place her at the centre of innovation enthusiasts.

Mwangi Karanja, Ph.D Dr. Karanja is a Data Science expert and a senior lecturer at JKUAt. In his role as a co-founder and board member of JHUB Africa, he is a vital lead in innovative technology. Dr. Karanja has a wealth of experience in research, computing, internet of things (IoT) and innovation management. His focus is educating small-business owners on research-driven strategies and efficient data management in order to promote long-term, sustainable growth.

John Kinyuru, Ph.D Dr. Kinyuru is a reputable co-founder and board member of JHUB Africa. He is a food technologist and a senior lecturer JKUAT, while also being the Deputy Director of the Africa Institute for Capacity Development (AICAD). Dr. Kinyuru is a natural leader and an innovator keen on food security and nutrition, with particular interest on edible insects.

Irene Kimani Irene is an ICT Specialist and Data Manager, currently at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO). She is a co-founder and board member of JHUB Africa. Her expertise spans from Big Data, AI, Data Science and Research Informatics. Irene has also been a key member of the CODATA Agricultural Task Group with her notable interest in agricultural extension services and weather intelligence.

Daisy Ondwari Daisy Ondwari is a co-founder and board member of the JHUB Africa project, contributing her rich experience in computer science. She is a Data Scientist and educator currently at Kabarak University.

As an IT professional, she is enthusiastic about machine learning engineering, AI, data science and computer system algorithms, particularly in climate change, health, agriculture and commerce.

Meet the Advisory Board Catherine Muraga, Microsoft ADC Catherine Muraga is the Managing Director of Microsoft Africa Development Centre (ADC) and an Engineering Director of Microsoft Corporation. She is passionate about application of technology in business through innovation to impact human life progressively.

Ghislain Noumbessy, Bosch Rich in experience in the tech industry, Noumbessy has been with Bosch for over 20 years. He is currently the Innovation Hub Leader Africa at Bosch and a charismatic individual when it comes to innovations.

Samuel Kamochu, Meliora Technologies Ltd Kamochu is an entrepreneur and technologist. He is a co-founder of Meliora Technologies, which deals with software engineering. He is passionate about enabling African developers to create technology to address problems facing it.

Dominique Kavuisya, Taimba Limited One of our major areas of focus is agri-tech, and Dominique ticks all the right boxes in that area. He is the CEO and a co-founder of Taimba Limited, a smart agriculture startup which connects smallholder farmers to the market and revolutionizes the food supply chain in Africa.

Priscilla Muiruri, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development Priscilla Muiruri is a smart agriculture expert and currently a Technical Advisor to the Cabinet Secretary. She is the Coordinator for Agro-weather, Market, Climate & Advisory Services at the Kenya Climate Smart Agriculture Project in the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development.

Meet the Secretariat Rose Ng’ang’a Rose is a seasoned professional in the

realm

of

communications,

media, and secretariat.

Her adaptability and thriving spirit make her a valuable asset in the field. She is part of the core team that runs JHUB Africa's office. She has worked in reputable places such as at the Unclaimed Financial Assets Authority (UFAA), and also passionate about digital communication.

George Gichuhi George is a member of the communications and media team boasting a wealth of experience. His expertise lies in the art of storytelling, particularly through multimedia and visual narratives. He is also a technology lover and mesmerized by innovations that improve the society.

He has worked across diverse media environments, from newsrooms to multimedia studios, and has honed his skills to adapt and flourish in the constantly changing landscape Collaboration and Teamwork are vital enablers of success, and communication is at the centre of everything

Briefly Know Our Partners Taimba Limited is among the consortium members of the JHUB Africa project. It is an agri-tech company that is transforming the Africa's agricultural supply chain between rural smallholder farmers and urban traders.

Impact Africa Network (IAN) is an ecosystem catalytic startup studio in Nairobi, Kenya on a mission to ensure young innovators can access Africa's digital transformation opportunity as creators and owners.

AEDIB|NET has the objective to strengthen a common African European digital innovation ecosystem by supporting local digital innovation and start-ups. JHUB Africa is among the digital innovation hubs supported by AEDIB|NET particularly due to mutual interest in Climate Smart Agriculture, Smart Cities, Digital Trade and Clean Tech for sustainable livelihoods.

FundingBox helps startups, scale-ups and entrepreneurs like you ignite their growth and rewrite their future now through easy-toapply funding opportunities, exclusive partnerships with global brands and community knowledge.

Zoho Corporation offers a wide range of cloud-based business software solutions. Our partnership seeks to enhance a skilled generation through trainings and short courses.

JKUAT Enterprises is a limited company, fully owned by Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). It offers the best quality training in ICT and other related courses and key in agricultural innovation advancement.

Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology is a public university in Kenya. It is among the most advanced institutions of learning, and home to innovators in diverse industries. In the technology sector, JKUAT boasts of producing the best minds in the country.

Walk the Innovation Journey With Us...

We are grateful for the continuous support you have accorded us and we look forward to more positive relations going forward. If you believe in INNOVATIONS FOR TRANSFORMATION, walk with us every step of the journey. Happy New Year 2024.

Thank You

Innovations for Transformation

Engage JHUB Africa on Social Media

Email: info.jhub@jkuat.ac.ke Website: https://jhub-self.vercel.app