Sustainability Innovation
The advancement of innovation plays a crucial role in sustainable development. By embracing nascent technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, and blockchain, it is possible to revolutionise different sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, and infrastructure. Digitisation and improved connectivity offer the chance to expand successful projects, link up with marginalised individuals, and significantly boost the effectiveness of interventions, thereby speeding up the fulfilment of the SDGs.
Sustainability Design Thinking
MK-Africa trains and coaches participants using Design Thinking to create actionable solutions for sustainability challenges. This involves a series of interactive sessions where participants engage with the problem and develop empathy for the end users. They then build prototype ideas, which they validate with the users. The challenge ends with participants presenting to a panel of judges, including the client. Some of our clients include the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Regional Leadership Centers (RLCs) from West, East, and Southern Africa, along with program sponsors such as DOW Chemicals, PowerAfrica, and USAID. We have worked with participants from Niger, DRC, Kenya, Togo, Cameroon, Senegal, Djibouti, and Zambia.
Our Design Thinking Coaching program supports innovative thinking on material ESG (environmental, social, and governance) issues. We are committed to collaborating with like-minded partners to drive innovation and create impactful solutions for a more sustainable future in Africa.
#MyLittleBigThing
Sustainability innovation relies on the active involvement of young people, as it brings together different stakeholders, harnesses their skills, and promotes sustainable development. MK-Africa’s #MyLittleBigThing initiative inspires African youth to create sustainable solutions for their communities by tapping into their entrepreneurial spirit and creativity. Through partnerships with organisations like Safaricom, we have supported youth-led projects to develop scalable solutions and bring fresh perspectives, creativity, and innovative ideas to tackle local challenges. Together, we can make a significant impact and work towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to build a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future.
Since the launch of the #MyLittleBigThing initiative, over 15,000 university and college students have participated in various activities related to the SDGs. More than 500 participants have submitted innovative ideas addressing different challenges linked to the SDGs, and over 100 ideas have advanced to the final judging stage.