NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) has celebrated one of its senior science educators, Kenneth Monjero, popularly known as “Dr. Fun”, after he received international recognition for championing youth participation in agricultural science and innovation.
Monjero, who coordinates the KALRO Science Centre Kenya and the World Food Prize Foundation Kenya Youth Institute (WFPF-KYI), was honoured with the World Food Prize Foundation Inspiring the Next Generation Award during the DialogueNEXT Africa conference held in Nairobi on June 30.
The award recognises individuals making exceptional contributions to inspiring young people to pursue careers in agriculture, science, technology and innovation while promoting sustainable food systems.
KALRO said the recognition reflects Monjero’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of agricultural innovators across Kenya and beyond.
The award was presented by World Food Prize Foundation President Mashal Husain alongside renowned Kenyan food scientist Prof. Ruth Oniang’o.
According to KALRO, Monjero has played a central role in expanding youth engagement through the Kenya Youth Institute, creating opportunities for students to develop innovative solutions to food security and agricultural challenges.
Under his leadership, the 2026 World Food Prize Foundation Kenya Youth Institute brought together 77 outstanding young innovators from across the country. The programme also included learners from a school for the deaf, highlighting efforts to promote inclusivity in science education and agricultural innovation.
KALRO said the achievement demonstrates the organisation’s broader commitment to empowering young people through research, science communication and practical agricultural education.
KALRO Director General congratulated Monjero, describing the award as recognition of both his personal dedication and the institution’s growing influence in developing future agricultural leaders.
The organisation noted that the recognition comes as KALRO and North Carolina State University continue discussions on a strategic partnership aimed at expanding the Kenya Youth Institute model and strengthening collaboration between students in Kenya and the United States.
The proposed partnership is expected to create additional opportunities for young people to participate in global agricultural research, innovation and leadership programmes.
KALRO said empowering youth remains central to Kenya’s efforts to transform agriculture into a modern, technology-driven sector capable of addressing food security, climate change and economic development.
The research institution added that investing in science education and innovation among young people is essential to building resilient food systems and preparing future generations to tackle emerging agricultural challenges.