Back in year 2022, the story of an elderly doctor, presumably 71 years of age was featured in one of the morning TV shows. This doctor believed he had the cure for cancer given past success with ailing patients. That far, the only thing that stood in his way and proof of concept was a platform to showcase his capability. Given his advancing age, the doctor was afraid of taking this knowledge with him to the afterlife. Consequently, he was frantic on getting helpful links, collaborations or funding that could advance more science to his knowledge. He desperately tried making contact with research bodies, both local and international, but to no avail. Earlier, the doctor had even gone ahead to postulate the use of malaria medication in containing flu strains. By now we know when Covid happened in 2020 – hydroquinone, an anti-malaria compound, was among the drugs that was actively used to manage its adverse effects. Unfortunately, no offer came forth with assistance for such a genius soul. Afterall, it’s common knowledge that drug-research is big business with many hurdles for “commoners”. In the end, it’s told the good man’s phone went silent. To this day, his whereabouts remain unknown, rumor suggesting he was murdered.

Now back to the title of this blog “What makes for innovation spaces?”

Well, these are well funded, intentional places dedicated to stimulating the creativity of users and bear them to fruition. Places where innovative projects take advantage of the availability of adapted environments and resources, to allow creativity, prototyping and subsequent commercialization. Indeed, most developed nations have gained immensely from this business. 

In a country like ours that prides itself in having one of the world’s highest literacy levels, we have no shortage of talent or innovation. M-Pesa being one of many brilliant local innovations. Certainly, what lacks for us is proper funding, structured environments and opportunities to incubate more ideas – Innovation Spaces. These spaces will guarantee that great ideas can easily be conceptualized & brought to life. When Konza Technopolis takes shape, we expect smart innovation spaces will be used to develop solutions that spur economic growth and showcase our country’s dynamism to the world. Indeed, Konza Technopolis offers the opportunity to realize beautiful times ahead.