Zetech and Egerton universities emerged as the top contenders in the recently concluded Inter-University Hackathon competitions, hosted by Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). Zetech University was crowned the overall winner, while Egerton University secured the second position. The high-stakes event brought together 28 institutions of higher learning from across the nation, showcasing Kenya’s brightest technical innovators.
Zetech’s winning project, MinerAI, is a sophisticated solution designed to detect illegal mining operations using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and satellite analytics. It secured the top position under the Governance track, confirming Zetech University’s leadership in ethical, high-impact technology. The project directly confronts one of the region’s most damaging challenges, contributing to lost revenue, land degradation, and harmful toxic emissions.
Through advanced AI and precision mapping, MinerAI provides data intelligence and real-time insights. These features enhance transparency in mining activities, encourage responsible operations, and bolster environmental protection. The solution’s global significance is underlined by its alignment with three Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 8 (Decent Work), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice).
The brilliant team behind MinerAI included team leader Kelvin Muriithi, Abdullahi Ismail, Alois Gitau, and Levian Amos. Muriithi stated, “This victory is a statement that Kenyan innovators can build world-class solutions. MinerAI represents countless hours of hard work and belief in what technology can do for governance and environmental protection.” The win marks MinerAI’s fourth major recognition.
The hackathon theme was “Strengthening the Innovation Ecosystem for Sustainable Development Using Ethical AI-Powered Solutions.” Beyond the overall title, Zetech University also won a category award with their Sauti innovation under the Culture theme. Vice Chancellor Prof. Njenga Munene praised the team, stating they “continue to demonstrate that when talent is guided, mentored, and challenged, remarkable solutions emerge.”
Dr. Benjamin Muindi, Dean of Research, Innovation, and Postgraduate Studies, highlighted the strategic importance of MinerAI’s success. He noted, “It shows how ethical AI can transform national governance, environmental management, and commercial application.” The event was supported by key partners, including Oracle and the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), affirming the role of universities in shaping Kenya’s technological future.
