Welcome messages

Lena Miranda

IASP President

Dear delegates, colleagues, and friends,

It is with pride I welcome you to the 41^st IASP World Conference on Science Parks and Areas of Innovation, which will be taking place from 24-27 September 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya.

This year’s theme will be centred around “Demographics, entrepreneurship and technology: defining the frontiers of future economies”. With insightful presentations and contributions from IASP members and leading global experts, we will examine the impact demographics, entrepreneurship and technology will have on science parks, areas of innovation, and other innovation ecosystems, as well as how to address and adjust to its constant evolution.

I extend my thanks to our local host, Konza Technopolis, as well as the local innovation community of Nairobi. Konza’s mission is to support Kenya’s growth into a sustainable, world-class technology hub and major economic driver, with ambitions plans of a smart city to support its local environment and community. I’m sure this conference will be a unique opportunity to learn, be inspired, network and create long-term global connections with both local and international peers.

Ebba Lund

IASP CEO

Dear world conference delegates,

Every IASP World Conference brings a unique opportunity for growth, evolution, and global connections, and IASP’s 41^st World Conference on Science Parks and Areas of Innovation is no exception. This year, our local host Konza Technopolis will be welcoming us in Nairobi, from 24-27 September 2024.

Konza Technopolis concentrates on bringing technology and education to the youth to impulse these industries in the country. and strives to create a tech-based and innovative community which will both foster local and international collaboration, impulse the local economy, and open Nairobi to both the world, and the global IASP community.

Konza’s mission has inspired this year’s theme, “Demographics, entrepreneurship and technology: defining the frontiers of future economies”, is especially relevant to our host country and park. The 4-day knowledge-based programme invites us to look at both our and younger generations’ future, studying ways to capitalise of youth demographic, entrepreneurship, and technology to foster growth of local, and international, economies.

I look forward to seeing you in Nairobi and strengthen old and future connections for IASP to continue thriving.

John Paul Okwiri

Konza Technopolis CEO

Dear Esteemed Colleagues and Innovators,

It is with great excitement and anticipation that we extend our invitation to you for the prestigious 41st IASP World Conference, scheduled from 24-27 September 2024. This auspicious event is set to occur in the year that the vibrant and dynamic Nairobi City, Kenya, has been voted by Lonely Planet as the “Best City to Visit in 2024.”

IASP2024 will be hosted at the Kenya International Convention Center (KICC), nestled in the heart of Nairobi’s thriving capital of Kenya. Our nation has long been recognized as a cradle of innovation, the veritable startup hub of Africa, where the seeds of innovation, creativity, and progress sprout and flourish.

Kenya’s unwavering commitment to Research, Science, Technology, and Innovation is not only anchored by the center of the Silicon Savannah also known as Konza Technopolis but also deeply ingrained in the spirit of our people. Here, we cultivate a flourishing ecosystem that nurtures research, fosters innovation-driven entrepreneurship, and celebrates diversity.

The 2024 IASP World Conference, under the theme “Demographics, Entrepreneurship, and Technology: Defining the Frontiers of Future Economies,” promises to be an extraordinary gathering, uniting global leaders in science parks, areas of innovation, and organizations dedicated to advancing research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

The gathering will provide an environment to celebrate our collective achievements while exploring the forces shaping our world in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

As you engage in this enriching experience, you will also have the privilege of experiencing the warm hospitality of Magical Kenya, immersing yourself in Kenya’s urban and cultural diversity, all while being in close proximity to Nairobi National Park, nestled right in the heart of our bustling capital. Here, you can witness the breathtaking wildlife and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of our nation’s cultures while networking with the global best.

Once again, on behalf of the host country, Konza Technopolis Board, our dedicated staff, and our entire nation, we extend a heartfelt welcome to IASP Nairobi. We eagerly anticipate your arrival in September 2024, as we embark on a journey of knowledge, innovation, and collaboration.

Let us collectively explore the boundless opportunities that await in Kenya, and together, let us shape the future.