This archive report was first published on 18 July 2019.
On July 18, 2019, Safaricom's #MyLittleBigThing Innovation Challenge celebrated its winners, who showcased innovative solutions to address the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The challenge, an initiative of MK-Africa in partnership with Safaricom, University of Cambridge South Africa, and PKF, aims to raise awareness on the SDGs among the youth.
Stephen Muchiri, a recent graduate from JKUAT, took home the top prize for his Auto-Alcoblow innovation, an alcohol detection and monitoring system. The system measures blood alcohol levels by analyzing a driver's breath and prevents ignition of a car engine by an intoxicated driver.
Other winners included Ruth Wanjiru, a 22-year-old student from JKUAT, whose Power in Plastics project encourages the reuse and recycling of plastics, and empowers low-income communities. Nkanai Cynthia, 19, from KU, came in third with her Keep A Child Warm project, which uses local materials to make improvised blankets for distribution to street families.
According to Muthoni Kanyana, CEO of MK-Africa, the challenge takes a thematic approach to enhancing SDGs capacity among university communities. The judges consider the viability of the idea, adaptability, and originality.
The winners will attend the Cambridge University Sustainability Practitioners Program in South Africa in August, followed by a three-month incubation period for their projects upon their return.
