MK-Africa, Absa Kenya Foundation Partner to Nurture Next-Generation Sustainability Innovators

 

 MK-Africa has signed a strategic partnership with the Absa Kenya Foundation (AKF) to strengthen youth-led sustainability innovation across the country. The collaboration was formalized on Monday during the opening of the #MyLittleBigThing Innovation Bootcamp, a two-day intensive programme bringing together 50 emerging innovators from across Kenya.

The #MyLittleBigThing initiative, created by MK-Africa, is widely recognized for empowering young Africans to design practical solutions to sustainability challenges. This year’s bootcamp will guide participants through problem validation, prototyping, strategic thinking, and mentorship, culminating in a final pitch showcase where innovators will present their refined projects.

Speaking during the signing, MK-Africa CEO Muthoni Kanyana emphasized the significance of the partnership in amplifying youth-driven climate and sustainability action.

“Today marks a pivotal moment for African youth innovation,” she said. “The #MyLittleBigThing Challenge is about seeing tomorrow’s sustainability leaders today and providing them with the tools and mentorship to drive tangible change. This partnership is a powerful validation of our mission to ensure young people are at the forefront of creating a sustainable future.”

Absa Bank Kenya’s Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs, Charles Wokabi, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to harnessing youth potential through practical skills and innovation.

“At Absa, we see the stories and potential of the upcoming generations of African innovators,” he said. “Through this innovation bootcamp, we are equipping young people with practical, employability and entrepreneurial skills by empowering sustainable value chains and driving financial inclusion and digital economic empowerment.”

Under the one-year partnership, which runs until December 31, 2026, the Absa Kenya Foundation will support the bootcamp as its official innovation partner. The foundation’s contribution includes logistical support, access to expert mentors, and the integration of key learning tools such as the ReadytoWork programme into the curriculum. The collaboration aligns with AKF’s focus areas of Education & Skills Development and Entrepreneurship & Economic Empowerment.

Wokabi noted that Absa Kenya Foundation will continue exploring opportunities to strengthen skills development for young innovators.

“By partnering with MK-Africa, we are championing programmes that build practical, future-fit skills, and we look forward to exploring additional avenues to support the growth of the next generation of African sustainability innovators,” he added.

About MK-Africa

MK-Africa is the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Certified Training Partner for the Africa region, offering ESG training and supporting organisations in developing sustainability reports using the GRI Standards. As a UN Global Compact member, the organisation works to inspire and equip businesses for sustainable long-term growth. MK-Africa also runs the #MyLittleBigThing initiative, a social enterprise programme that trains and mentors youth on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), fostering innovation among university students.

About Absa Kenya Foundation

The Absa Kenya Foundation is the social investment arm of Absa Bank Kenya PLC. The foundation focuses on Education & Skills Development, Entrepreneurship & Economic Empowerment, and Environmental Sustainability. Through strategic partnerships and targeted programmes, the foundation works to equip communities—particularly the youth—with skills, resources, and opportunities to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.