The National Intelligence and Research University (NIRU) has announced the launch of the National AI Hackathon 2025, a flagship innovation competition aimed at developing homegrown artificial intelligence solutions to address Kenya’s most pressing socio-economic and security challenges.
The nationwide call targets tech enthusiasts, students, researchers, and innovators, who may register individually or in teams. Designed to position Kenya as a continental powerhouse in AI-driven transformation, the hackathon seeks to harness the creativity and skills of the country’s rapidly growing tech community.
According to NIRU Vice Chancellor Dr. James Kibon, the initiative will catalyze a new wave of indigenous innovations that support economic growth, enhance national resilience, and contribute to long-term security. “The AI Hackathon 2025 is a chance for Kenyan innovators to build homegrown solutions. We will incubate the top innovators, mentoring and supporting them to turn their ideas into real-world impact,” he said.
Running under the theme “National Prosperity: Leveraging Innovations for Sustainable Development and Security,” the competition is open to Kenyans of all ages. Registration closes on November 28, 2025.
Participants will compete across five key challenge tracks:
- Cybersecurity & Data Protection
- Security, Safety & Policy
- Sustainable Development & Economic Innovation
- Governance, Public Policy & Political Stability
- Homegrown Generative AI
The hackathon features one of the most substantial prize pools in the country’s innovation ecosystem. The overall winning team will receive KSh 2 million, while the top individual finalist will take home KSh 1 million. Team first runners-up will be awarded up to KSh 1.5 million, with individuals receiving KSh 750,000. Second runners-up will secure up to KSh 1 million for teams or KSh 500,000 for individuals.
Additional awards include KSh 300,000 for the best solution in each sub-theme and KSh 400,000 for outstanding work in special categories.
The initiative is spearheaded by NIRU in collaboration with top academic institutions and private-sector partners, including the United States International University–Africa (USIU-Africa), Strathmore University, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, the Open University of Kenya, the Co-operative University of Kenya, Equity Bank, KCB Bank, and the Communications Authority of Kenya.
The National AI Hackathon 2025 is expected to boost Kenya’s innovation ecosystem and empower the next generation of AI builders shaping the future of national development and security.