Kenyan University Students Win Prestigious Prize at Global Competition in Germany

Two Kenyan students from the Mount Kenya University (MKU), Esbon Ogeto and Bettinah Maruti, have earned global recognition for their start-up project, EcoBlue.

In a statement released on September 26, the institution praised the duo for representing Kenya proudly on the global stage.

“Congratulations to our Student Innovators! Two brilliant MKU students have proudly lifted Kenya’s flag high after emerging top at a business innovation competition in Leipzig, Germany, with their groundbreaking project EcoBlue,” MKU posted.

“We celebrate their creativity, resilience, and global impact as they continue to showcase the power of innovation from MKU to the world.”

EcoBlue innovation emerged as the top investment-worthy innovation during the prestigious ACCESS 2.0 AGEA Competition, held in Leipzig, Germany, from September 3rd to 12th, 2025, at the SEPT Competence Centre, Leipzig University.

MKU Students’ EcoBlue Innovation Wins Top Prize at Global Competition in Germany

The competition was held under the ACCESS programme, which brought together students from five African universities for a two-week entrepreneurship training programme.

The program covered business planning, market analysis, financial modeling, and pitch development, culminating in a high-stakes presentation where EcoBlue emerged as the most promising startup.

According to the institution, Esbon and Bettinah’s achievement underscores MKU’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent and tackling employability challenges among African youth.

Also Read: Two Kenyan University Students Win Ksh193,000 in Continental Award

Through Access Kenya, MKU continues to develop the next generation of innovators by providing mentorship, training, and global exposure.

To support the realization of their vision, the “EcoBlue” team will receive ongoing assistance from MKU’s Incubation and Innovation Centre, including:

• Prototype development and testing
• Guidance on securing a utility model and patent from the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI)
• Strategic support to access international markets, including the EU

Also Read: 11 Kenyan Vice Chancellors Honored for Student-Led Innovations

Invitation For other Kenyan Students

In line with its mission to scale innovation, MKU and its 10 affiliate universities are hosting a national business innovation challenge, titled “Innovate for Impact: Scaling Kenyan MSMEs through SDG 9,” from October 19 to 24, 2025.

The affiliate Universities include Daystar University, Kabarak University, Karatina University, Kenyatta University, Machakos University, Riara University, Strathmore University, Technical University of Kenya, Zetech University, and Tharaka University

The challenge invites students to submit solutions that empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Kenya.

The initiative aims to develop at least 30 practical solutions addressing MSME challenges in Kenya

Interested applicants can apply via MKU’s official Facebook page.

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