The National Council for Science and Technology, Kenya, an agency of the government of Kenya has announced the hosting of its second Multisectoral Conference on Science, Technology and Innovation (MS-COSTI), a yearly conference which aims to facilitate a multifaceted forum of national and international discourse to deliberate, network, partner, share experiences and resolve on how best to infuse or deploy Science, Technology and Innovation for prosperity of humanity as well as for public good, safety and security. The Conference accentuate on a technology-driven and innovation-led inclusive sustainable development agenda.
In recognition of the importance of science and technology to national development processes, Kenya’s colonial government established a number of scientific research and development facilities especially in the country’s agriculture and health sectors. These included the Scott Agricultural Laboratories in 1903, Coffee Research Services in 1908, Veterinary Research Laboratories in 1910 and Medical Research Laboratory in 1958. Similar efforts in other sectors were made during the nineteen forties and fifties.
In an effort to contribute to realization of the Kenya Vision 2030 and other national development goals, which aspires to transform Kenya into a globally competitive, newly industrialized, middle income country founded on a strong foundation on Science and Technology and Innovation with Research playing a key role in generating critical mass of technical and skilled manpower, the Science, Technology and Innovation Act, 2013 was formulated. The Act repealed Cap. 250 of the Laws of Kenya and established the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI) as successor of the National Council for Science and Technology (NCST). The Act will facilitate the promotion, coordination and regulation of the progress of Science, Technology and Innovation (ST&I) in the country.