MK‑Africa, the creator of the premier youth‑led sustainability innovation platform #MyLittleBigThing, has entered a strategic partnership with the Absa Kenya Foundation (AKF) to empower the next generation of sustainability champions.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on Monday, coincided with the launch of the two‑day #MyLittleBigThing Innovation Bootcamp.
About #MyLittleBigThing
#MyLittleBigThing by MK‑Africa is a leading impact initiative that empowers African youth to develop innovative solutions to sustainability challenges. It provides a platform where young people transform their passion for sustainability into scalable, real‑world solutions.
This week, 50 high‑potential youth innovators are participating in a two‑day bootcamp focused on problem validation, prototyping, and strategic clarity. The sessions will culminate in a Final Pitch Showcase, where innovators present their refined solutions.
The Partnership
MK‑Africa CEO Muthoni Kanyana said:
“Today marks a pivotal moment for African youth innovation. The #MyLittleBigThing Challenge is about seeing tomorrow’s sustainability leaders today and providing them with the tools and mentorship to drive tangible change.”
Absa Bank Kenya Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Charles Wokabi added:
“Our partnership with MK‑Africa reflects our commitment to nurturing talent, strengthening innovation, and preparing youth for the future of work. Through this innovation bootcamp, we are equipping young people with practical, employability and entrepreneurial skills.”
Absa Kenya Foundation’s Role
The Absa Kenya Foundation, launched in 2024, is supporting the boot camp as the official innovation partner, aligning with its pillars of Education & Skills Development and Entrepreneurship & Economic Empowerment.
AKF’s support enables:
- Logistical support for the bootcamp.
- Access to mentors for youth innovators.
- Integration of learning tools such as the #ReadytoWork programme.
The one‑year partnership runs until December 31, 2026, establishing a strong collaboration between MK‑Africa and AKF.
MK‑Africa’s Broader Impact
MK‑Africa is the Africa region’s Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Certified Training Partner, running ESG workshops and producing sustainability reports using GRI standards. It is also a member of the UN Global Compact.
Through #MyLittleBigThing, MK‑Africa trains and mentors youth on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and sustainable business practices. Inspired by Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai’s “Little Thing” of planting trees, the initiative encourages undergraduate students to innovate around SDGs‑led education.
Absa Kenya Foundation Pillars
The foundation is structured around four strategic pillars:
- Entrepreneurship
- Education and Skills Development
- Environmental Sustainability
- Humanitarian Relief
These pillars are designed to tackle Kenya’s pressing challenges, including youth unemployment, financing gaps, climate vulnerability, and access to basic services during crises.
This partnership between MK‑Africa and the Absa Kenya Foundation represents a powerful step in equipping African youth with future‑fit skills, strengthening innovation ecosystems, and embedding sustainability into Kenya’s development agenda.
Absa Bank Kenya’s Strategic Investment in Sustainable Finance
