On Wednesday, 24th September 2025, Kibabii University, in partnership with the University of Huddersfield commissioned a state-of-the-art Bagasse Drier at Carbon Footprint Limited in Kakamega County. The event was presided over by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Ipara Odeo, alongside the University Management and a research delegation from the University of Huddersfield led by Prof. John M. Allport and Ms. Gina Javanbakht.
The project, undertaken under the African Agriculture Knowledge Transfer Partnership (AAKTP) 2023–24 R1, is a tripartite collaboration between Kibabii University, the University of Huddersfield, and Carbon Footprint Limited. The project was steered by the Principal Investigator Prof. Joshua Abuya, and the project team members; Dr. Jonathan Mutonyi, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Bennedict M. Mutua, Dr. Paul O. Obino, Dr. Patrick Owoche and Dr. John Makokha. Having comenced in 2023, the project has been guided by the vision of transforming sugarcane waste management through the development of a sustainable bagasse drying solution.
The Bagasse Drier, designed and engineered locally, stands as a pioneering innovation in the utilization of sugarcane by-products. Beyond its technical achievements, including the preparation of two intellectual property patents now set for submission to the Kenya Industrial Property Institute, the project is poised to deliver lasting benefits to the community. It promises to generate employment opportunities, reduce the environmental challenges posed by sugarcane waste, and provide renewable energy alternatives that will strengthen the sugarcane value chain and enhance the regional economy.
According to the Vice Chancellor, the successful commissioning of this innovation is a testament to the power of global partnerships in addressing local challenges. It reflects the synergy between international expertise and local knowledge in creating solutions that are not only scientifically sound but socially transformative.
“The Bagasse Drier is more than an industrial installation; it is a symbol of progress, resilience, and community empowerment. Its impact will be felt in improved agricultural practices, cleaner environments, and expanded opportunities for the people of Western Kenya, marking a new chapter in the pursuit of sustainable solutions for the future. For Kibabii University, this achievement reinforces its position as a growing hub of applied research and innovation in Africa, committed to driving sustainable development,” he said.
