Six students from the Technical University of Mombasa; Sanaipei Lepunyanta, Ebby Lari, Lisa Wairigia, Sora Umi, Fredrick Otieno, and Gibson Keeptum, represented the university at the IEEE African Entrepreneurship Summit, held from 22nd to 24th May 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda. The summit brought together hundreds of student innovators, entrepreneurs, and professionals from across the continent to explore how technology can be harnessed to solve Africa’s pressing challenges.
Their participation reflects the growing momentum behind the establishment of an IEEE Student Branch at TUM, an initiative that is already opening doors for student engagement in global events, competitions, and training opportunities. The Rwanda summit marked a major milestone in this journey, positioning TUM students at the heart of pan-African innovation conversations.
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is the world’s largest technical professional organization, with a global network of members committed to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. While plans to formally establish a student chapter at TUM are still underway, this group of pioneering students has already begun laying the groundwork by taking part in regional IEEE events and representing the university on international platforms.
During the summit, a hackathon focusing on Artificial Intelligence in agriculture offered students a chance to present technology-based solutions to real-world issues. Two projects from TUM stood out. Fredrick Otieno and Ian Muriuki developed a project titled Agri-Vision, which uses drones to collect farm imagery and AI to detect crop diseases based on leaf patterns. The system also includes functionality to count and monitor produce. Their innovation earned the team the position of first runners-up, with their demo being recognized among the best in the competition.
As a reward of this great achievement, they have been presented a chance to showcase their project in IEEE YESIST 12 (Youth Endeavors For Social Innovation Using Sustainable Technology) in Malaysia from 23rd to 24th August 2025.
Ebby Lari also received recognition for her contribution to a team project that explored a Hydroponic AI-Powered Farming System, an initiative aimed at introducing sustainable, soil-less farming using smart technology. Her team’s work impressed the judges and highlighted the potential of TUM students in forward-looking agricultural innovation.
In addition to the hackathon, Sora Umi, a graduate of TUM’s Institute of Computing and Informatics, was invited to speak on a panel at the summit. Representing both TUM and the Kenya Red Cross, she discussed the role of humanitarian organizations in advancing innovation and technology. Her presentation focused on the IOMe hubs in Mombasa and Lamu, which provide free spaces for young people to develop projects and prototypes. She also shared news of an upcoming Memorandum of Understanding between IEEE and the Red Cross, aimed at enhancing collaboration around sustainable, community-based technologies.
The Rwanda summit was not just an opportunity for TUM students to network and learn; it was a clear demonstration of their capability, creativity, and readiness to contribute meaningfully on an international stage. Beyond those who attended the summit, TUM’s growing IEEE community also includes Michelle Keah, Jacob Juma, Ian Muriuki, Shadrach Muinde, Kelvin Mweu, Fatma, John Ragot, Fredrick Ondara, and Kelvin Kipkemoi.
As the university looks to launch its IEEE Student Branch formally, it is expected that academic support from faculty members such as Dr. Michael Munywoki and Mr. Aggrey Shitsukane will help guide the initiative forward.
The Technical University of Mombasa remains committed to empowering its students with platforms that not only encourage innovation but also foster global citizenship. The achievements in Rwanda mark a strong beginning for what promises to be a transformative journey with IEEE.
