BITRI Exhibits at the Innovation Prize for Africa 2016

On the 22nd to 23rd June 2016 BITRI exhibited at the Innovation Prize for Africa (IPA 2016).The theme for this year’s award ceremony was ‘Made in Africa,’ based on the belief that Africa can posit itself on the world map through self-innovation, carving its own success story of growth economies and creating incentives to commercialize and scale up home-grown innovations.

BITRI used the platform to sensitize customers on the possible areas of research collaborations, BITRI IP Policy, pertinent research contracts and agreements as well as transferring research outputs into business opportunities as well as to enhance awareness of Kgalagadi Sand Building Block/ Brick Technology (KSBB) and the Seding Solar Street Lighting. The event also attracted local innovators, media, public figures, entrepreneurs, NGO’s, venture capitalists, angel investors and the general public.

During his official opening speech the Minister, MIST Hon Nonofo E. Molefhi was full of encouragement for local innovators.

“It is through hosting IPA 2016 awards here in Botswana that we hope to encourage local innovators to be relevant to Africa level innovation efforts and be a part of them Ladies and gentlemen, I know that the next two days are dedicated to interactions among the innovators to share ideas on innovation, and we believe the BIH Science Park is the most ideal place for such networking with the view to stimulate new innovations and conceptualise on how these can reach the market” Hon Molefhi stated.

Permanent Secretary (MIST) Dikagiso B. Mokotedi in his welcome remarks indicated that the event was more than just celebrating innovation but also celebrating Botswana and its cultural diversity.

“Beyond the creativity, innovations and networking sessions in the park you will appreciate the Tswana Culture, folklore and cuisine during the cultural session later this evening. Botswana has rich cultural diversity and scenic beauty that I invite you to explore” implored Mr Mokotedi.

The event amongst the exhibitions featured an innovator boot camp, intellectual property workshop AIF Book – Launch a cultural dinner on the opening night as well as the gala dinner on the closing evening.