Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made a passionate appeal to guests attending Global Science Parks Conference in Nairobi to consider exploring Kenya’s natural beauty before they leave.
Gachagua who was representing President William Ruto during the event said there was a lot for them to immerse themselves in from the rich wildlife to cultural heritage.
He cited the allure of the Maasai Mara which is the home to the eighth wonder of the world and the presence of the iconic big five animals.
“Please don’t leave this country before taking a trip to the Maasai Mara to enjoy the abundance of our wildlife,” he said.
“How can you possibly go back to your country before going to see those animals? I beg you,” he said.
He also mentioned Mombasa which he told them has beautiful coastal beaches with white sands where they can enjoy “a lot of sunbathing”.
“Don’t just go back to Europe, America or Asia. Our cultural heritage is the best in the world. You must get a change to interact with the Maasai morans and enjoy their beautiful dances and those Maasais kill lions with bare hands, you need to see them,” he said.
Gachagua also cracked the audience when he pleaded with the guests to leave some dollars they carried with them to the meeting in Nairobi.
“Please, don’t go back with that money. Make sure at the end of the conference you spend to the last coin, we do need that foreign exchange. Leave whatever you have here,” he held.
The 41st International Association Of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation World Conference is being hosted for the first time in Kenya.
The summit aims to explore opportunities in the global digital and innovation landscape will be explored.
During his address, the DP also highlighted the importance of Digital Technology and Innovation saying it forms the basis of building prosperous and sustainable communities.
“Expanding and breaking barriers demands constant and consistent conversations on research and deliberate investments for knowledge-driven digital economies,” he stated.
ICT and Digital Economy Principal Secretary and IASP Africa President John Tanui and his Broadcasting and Telecommunications counterpart Edward Kisiang'ani were present.
IASP President Lena Miranda, IASP CEO Ebba Lund, Konzatech Board of Directors Chairman Munavu, Konza Technopolis CEO John Paul Okwiri, Prof Ratemo Michieka (Chair of Africa Union’s African Scientific, Research and Innovation Council (ASRIC), national, regional and global experts in technology and innovation were also in attendance.