The NIRU Centre for Research and Innovation has launched the AI Hackathon 2025, a national competition that challenges Kenya’s innovators to develop artificial intelligence solutions aimed at promoting sustainable development, good governance, and national security.

Themed “AI for National Prosperity: Leveraging Innovation for Sustainable Development and Security,” the hackathon seeks to position Kenya as a regional leader in AI-driven transformation by empowering local talent to design intelligent systems that address real-world challenges.

The hackathon is designed to bring together innovative minds to build cutting-edge solutions that safeguard our nation’s future.

The event targets students, developers, researchers, and entrepreneurs from across Kenya, with more than 500 participants and 80 AI projects expected.

NIRU Prizes to Win

The competition features a total prize pool of over Ksh 10 million, making it one of the most rewarding innovation contests in the country.

The best overall team will receive Ksh 2 million, while the best individual participant will walk away with Ksh 1 million. The second-place team will earn KSh 1.5 million, and the third-place team KSh 1 million, alongside individual prizes of KSh 750,000 and KSh 500,000, respectively.

Additional prizes include KSh 300,000 for winners in each subtheme and KSh 400,000 each for the best participant with disabilities, best rookie undergraduate, and best female innovator.

Finalists will also receive branded hampers, mentorship, and incubation support to transform their ideas into viable startups.

Participants can compete in several challenge tracks, including Threat Detection and Prevention, Cyber Intelligence, Predictive Analytics, Organized Crime, Governance and Public Policy, and Generative and Agentic AI, with a focus on localized large language models that enhance education, healthcare, and communication.

The hackathon is supported by leading universities and organizations, including USIU-Africa, the University of Nairobi, Strathmore University, Kabarak University, Meru University, the Open University of Kenya, Masinde Muliro University, Dedan Kimathi University, the Equity Group Foundation, and KCB Bank.

Also Read: National Intelligence Research University Launches AI Hackathon to Address Kenya’s Key Socio-Economic Challenges

How to Apply

Interested participants can register individually or as part of a team of up to five members at aihackathon.niru.ac.ke.

Applications must include a concept note outlining the AI solution and its intended impact. The deadline for registration is November 28, 2025.

All submissions must include a minimum viable product (MVP) demonstrating the solution’s functionality and value.

Participants may compete in more than one challenge track.

By hosting the hackathon, NIRU aims to inspire a generation of innovators capable of building technologies that transform Kenya’s future.

For inquiries, participants can reach NIRU via aihackathon@niru.ac.ke or WhatsApp at 0115 792 837 or 0115 792 308.

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A photo of AI Hackathon 2025 poster. PHOTO/Handout.