Theme: Social Economy: Building a Sustainable and Inclusive Future for Africa

AACOSE, is a pan-African movement that addresses the challenges and opportunities in the social entrepreneurship space by convening stakeholders to foster collaboration, strengthen networks, and promote transformative business models rooted in Africa’s cultural heritage and values, aiming for growth and societal equity.

AACOSE 8 will highlight how social entrepreneurship contributes to the continent’s sustainable development and Africa’s diverse social and economic landscape. This conference is important in engaging in the discussion towards multisectoral collaboration between governments, the private sector, civil society, and international organisations so as to promote the growth of the social economy.

Where

Tangaza University
Langata South Road, Karen – Nairobi

When

14th – 16th May 2025

Call for Entries!

Youth Innovation Challenge

Entry Submission for the AACOSE Youth Innovation Challenge 2025 themed “African Youth: Innovating for Inclusive and Sustainable Social Impact” is open!
 
The Challenge seeks to identify, recognize, and reward young innovators who have come up with innovative solutions that solve effectively and sustainably the societal issues. It is an opportunity for young innovators to showcase their innovation in tackling societal issues and creating a more sustainable and inclusive future.

WHY ATTEND AACOSE 8

AACOSE 8

PLENARY SESSIONS

These will be the main sessions of the conference and bring together social entrepreneurs, impact practitioners, policymakers, and field experts to provide perspectives, experience, and strategic orientation on the topics.

AACOSE 8

BREAKOUT SESSIONS

They will be more focused sessions led by industry leaders and practitioners. They will entail in-depth diving into specific sub-themes or specialized areas. They will give participants more interactive engagement and dialogue opportunities on the themes.

AACOSE 8

MASTERCLASS

This is a hands-on and interactive training session led by a field expert. It’s designed to provide practical lessons, skills, and strategies on the specific topic that the participants can immediately apply to their social enterprise, empowering them with new tools and knowledge.

AACOSE 8

AACOSE ACADEMIA

Provides a forum for academic research contributions on the social economy, bridging the gap between academia and practice. A call for papers is sent to submit the papers. The session emphasizes how research can support and enhance the development of the social economy, reinforcing the role of education and research in building sustainable, inclusive communities.

AACOSE 8

NETWORKING COCKTAIL

The AACOSE evening cocktail will be a space for participants to network in a more relaxed environment and build relationships in an informal yet professional setting. This will be a chance to expand their professional networks, showcase their personalities beyond business, learn and exchange ideas beyond our formal sessions.

Scheduled

Sessions

Expand All +
  • Day 1


  • Day 2


  • Day 3


  • Fr. Alfred Buju of Tangaza University will open AACOSE 8 with an invocation and reflection to set the tone for the event.
    Opening & Welcome Remarks
    Where
    Main Hall

  • This session will feature insights from Ms. Margaret Mliwa, CEO of Ford Foundation East Africa; Mr. Mamo B Mamo, Director General of NEMA; and Ms. Mendi Njonjo, Director of the KCB Foundation. These esteemed leaders will share their perspectives on driving sustainable development, environmental responsibility, and inclusive economic growth across the continent.
    Opening & Welcome Remarks
    Where
    Main Hall

  • This session will showcase innovations from Care360 and feature Ms. Awuor Oketch, CEO and Founder of Ambulex, as she presents her impactful solution. The panel will include Ms. Winnie Wangari from Villgro Africa, a representative from AAR Hospital, and Dr. Billy Njuguna, CEO of Agewell Clinics, who will discuss emerging trends and challenges in the sector. The session will be moderated by Mr. Kennedy Auma, CEO of the Youth Action Forum for Networking (YAFNET), guiding a dynamic conversation on building inclusive health systems.
    Plenary Sessions
    Showcasing
    Where
    Main Hall

  • This session will feature a showcase by Brian Munene, Founder of Africa Renewables Katalyst, highlighting renewable energy-driven impact. The panel will include Muthoni Njuguna, Co-Founder of Eco Hope Africa; Mr. James Mwangi from 3 ZERO House; Mr. Prabhakar Vanam, CEO of KCIC Consulting; and Ms. Waithira Gichiri, CEO of Susfari Kenya. Moderated by Ms. Angela Onyango, Sustainability Analyst at Impact Africa Consulting, the discussion will delve into scalable strategies for a greener future.
    Breakout Sessions
    Where
    Room B2

  • This session's showcases will include Mr. Genesio Mugo of Tangaza University and Hand in Hand International, both presenting practical examples of entrepreneurship driving social change. Panelists include Prof. Ujal Ibrahim, PhD, MS, from University Canada West; Mr. Basel Alaghbar of Arweqah Alreyadah; Neda’a Renata from The FWD Movement; and Ms. Eva Kigo of Village Enterprise. The session will be moderated by Mr. Vincent Odhiambo, Regional Director of Ashoka East Africa, guiding a conversation on innovation, sustainability, and inclusive economic models.
    Breakout Sessions
    Showcasing
    Where
    Room B3

  • This session will explore the powerful role of faith-based institutions and values in shaping and supporting the social economy. Panelists include Fr. Ismael K. Matambura, SJ, Director of AJAN; Ms. Rene Parker, Director of RLABS; Mr. Jackson Mwatha from Villgro Africa; and Ms. Irene Mureithi, Lead Coach at the Personal Development Institute. The discussion will be moderated by Ms. Cheryl Jacob from Reasonate, fostering dialogue at the intersection of faith, purpose, and impact.
    Breakout Sessions
    Where
    Room B12

  • This breakout session will focus on effective strategies for measuring and managing impact within social enterprises and development initiatives. Facilitated by Ms. Mallory St. Claire, Impact Manager at ANDE, the session will provide practical tools and frameworks to help organizations track their outcomes and drive meaningful change.
    Breakout Sessions
    Where
    Room B17

  • This session will focus on strengthening food systems and advancing agricultural practices that prioritize sustainability, local resilience, and food sovereignty. It will highlight community-led efforts and innovations aimed at securing Africa’s agricultural future. Panelists include Ms. Julia Kamau from Seed Savers Network; Mr. Symphorien Pyana, CEO of Agromwinda; and Dr. James Mwangi Nderitu, Climate Smart Agribusiness Lead at Success in Agriculture. Moderated by Ms. Catherine Odhiambo, Head of Media, Community & Events at Foodpreneurs Hub, the session will offer practical insights into transforming agriculture through empowerment and innovation.
    Breakout Sessions
    Where
    Room B4

  • Mr. Joram Mwinamo, CEO of SNDBX International, will deliver the closing remarks for Day 1 of AACOSE 8. He will reflect on the key insights and discussions of the day, setting the stage for continued engagement and learning in the sessions to follow.
    Closing Remarks
    Where
    Main Hall

  • Fr. Alfred Buju of Tangaza University will open Day 2 of AACOSE 8 with an invocation and reflection to set the tone for the event.
    Opening & Welcome Remarks
    Where
    Main Hall

  • Recap conducted by Dr. Jeketule Soko - Tangaza University
    Where
    Main Hall

  • Opening Remarks conducted by Eugene Muchai - Marketing Executive, TIE Events
    Opening & Welcome Remarks
    Where
    Main Hall

  • Additional remarks include Mr. Barlet Colly Jaji, Executive Director of the Refugees Consortium of Kenya; Dr. Adenew Mesfin, CEO of Social Enterprise Ethiopia; Mr. Symphorien Pyana, CEO of Agromwinda; and Dr. Cecilia Wandiga, Executive Director of CSTI.
    Opening & Welcome Remarks
    Where
    Main Hall

  • This session will begin with a showcase by CPF Financial Services showing their approach to financing with impact, demonstrating practical solutions for sustainable development. The panel features Mr. Brahim Daoulhadj from Arweqah Alreyadah, Saudi Arabia; Dr. Joyce N Tamale, CEO of Capital Solutions; Mr. Stephen Ngaruiya from Kingdom Bank; and Kennedy Odera, Capacity and Systems Strengthening Coordinator at KCDF. Moderated by Ms. Krupa Mandavia, Project Management Consultant at the International Trade Centre, the discussion will spotlight how finance can be a tool for equity, resilience, and transformation.
    Plenary Sessions
    Showcasing
    Where
    Main Hall

  • 15 Minute Break
    Breaks & Networking

  • This session will explore how data and emerging technologies can be harnessed to drive scalable and effective social impact across sectors. It will highlight real-world applications and innovations transforming communities through digital solutions. Panelists include Mr. Mouli Somayajula, President and CEO of Prudence B2B; Ms. Grace Wachori, Regional Director at ANDE; Mr. Nyiringango Pascal, Head of the Grid Innovation & Incubation Hub; and Dr. Erick Franck Y. Pathinvo from Côte d'Ivoire. The session will be moderated by Mr. Mike B. Kipkorir, CEO of Verb Education, guiding a forward-thinking discussion on tech-enabled development.
    Plenary Sessions
    Where
    Main Hall

  • This session will explore the intersection of sports and social innovation, examining how athletic initiatives can drive community development, youth empowerment, and social cohesion. Dr. David Thiru from St. Paul's University will share insights on integrating sports into transformative social programs. The session will be moderated by Mr. Francis Gichuki, Founder of Tabasamu Training Institute, fostering dialogue on leveraging sports as a catalyst for positive change.
    Breakout Sessions
    Where
    Room B2

  • This session will highlight innovative approaches within the circular economy, showcasing how businesses and organizations are transforming waste into value and promoting sustainable resource use. Featured showcases include Reach for Change and AJAN Madagascar, both demonstrating impactful circular solutions. Panelists include Mr. Emmanuel Mwendwa from KCIC; Mr. Brian Ndegwa, Program Manager at Agri Frontier; Dr. William Muriithi of Strathmore Business School; and Ms. Mekdim Gullilat, Country Director at Reach for Change. The session will be moderated by Dr. Calvin Othoo of Tangaza University, steering a thought-provoking dialogue on circularity and regenerative systems.
    Breakout Sessions
    Showcasing
    Where
    Room B3

  • This session will focus on empowering youth through job creation and entrepreneurial opportunities, exploring innovative solutions to tackle unemployment in Africa. It will feature a showcase by Ms. Agnes Patriciah Mweni from Tangaza University, highlighting key initiatives for youth empowerment. The panel includes Ms. Phyllis Atieno from Global Shapers Nairobi, Mr. Wycliffe Guguni, Country Director at KECTIL, Mr. Victor Apollo, Head of Solution Mapping at UNDP Accelerator Labs – Kenya, and Ms. Desire Peters, Chief Programme Operations Officer at Gold Youth South Africa. The session will be moderated by Ms. Irene Omogi from GIZ, fostering a dynamic conversation on youth-driven employment solutions and social innovation.
    Breakout Sessions
    Showcasing
    Where
    Room B4

  • This session will focus on integrating people-centered and planet-positive approaches into development and business models, emphasizing sustainable practices that benefit both communities and the environment. Panelists include Ms. Tizzita Mengesha from Ethiopia and Ms. Grace Wachori, Regional Director at ANDE, who will share insights on balancing social impact with environmental stewardship. Together, they will explore actionable strategies for prioritizing both people and the planet in creating a more sustainable and equitable future.
    Breakout Sessions
    Where
    Room B17

  • Panelist 1: Ms. Catherine Njoroge - RCK Panelist 2: Mr. Andrew Agumba - UNHCR Panelist 3: Mr. John Burugu - Commissioner, DRS Panelist 4: Inkomoko Moderator: Ms. Jane Waithera - Refugee Consortium of Kenya
    Breakout Sessions
    Where
    Room B12

  • Speaker: Dr. Br. Jonas Yawovi Dzinekou - Director, Institute for Social Transformation, Tangaza University Judges Remarks: Speaker: Mr. Joseph Murabula - CEO, KCIC Keynote Speaker: Mr. Josiah Moriasi - CEO, Youth Enterprise Development Fund LAUNCH OF THE AWARDS & CLOSING CEREMONY
    Closing Remarks
    Where
    Main Hall

  • Opening Prayer conducted by Fr. Alfred Buju - Tangaza University
    Opening & Welcome Remarks
    Where
    Main Hall

  • Opening remarks conducted by Mr. Eugene Muchai - Marketing Executive, TIE Events
    Opening & Welcome Remarks
    Where
    Main Hall

  • Dr. Cecilia Osyanju - Dean, School of Arts and Social Sciences, Tangaza University Dr. Daniel M. Kitonga - DVC Academics - Tangaza University Prof. Maud Kamatenesi - Founder, Mamita Foundation Training Centre Dr. Warner Woodworth - University of Utah
    Opening & Welcome Remarks
    Where
    Main Hall

  • ACADEMIA PROGRAMME COMING SOON
    AACOSE Master Class
    Where
    Room B12

  • Facilitator: Dr. Deogratias Mzurikwao - Villgro Africa Facilitator: Prof. Mirjam Van Reisen - Leiden University
    AACOSE Master Class
    Where
    Room B3

  • Facilitator: Ms. Irene Mureithi - Personal Development Institute
    AACOSE Master Class
    Where
    Room B4

  • Facilitator 1: Ms. Linda Onyango - CEO, SME Support Centre Facilitator 2: Emilly Omudho - Team Lead Programs, KCDF
    AACOSE Master Class
    Where
    Room B17

  • Facilitator: Ms. Esther Mwaniki - Founder, Lapid Leaders Africa
    AACOSE Master Class
    Where
    Room 5

  • Facilitator: Dr. Billy Njuguna - CEO, Agewell Clinics
    AACOSE Master Class
    Where
    Room 6

  • Facilitator: Francis Gichuki - Founder Tabasamu Training Institute
    AACOSE Master Class
    Where
    Room B2

  • AACOSE Academia Continues
    Where
    Room 1


Access Early Bird AACOSE 8 Tickets

Apply Coupon code #earlylocaldelegate for Local delegates, #earlyintafridelegate for International delegates within Africa and #earlyintdelegate for International delegates to receive 40% off your ticket cost.

  • Local Delegates

    Access toThe Full Conference
  • Access to all sessions
  • Access to the Exhibition booths
  • Meal access for the three days
  • KES8,000
  • International Delegates

    Access to The Full Conference
  • Access to all sessions
  • Access to the Exhibition booths
  • Meal access for the three days
  • $150

AACOSE 7

Speakers

News & Publications

Location

P.O. Box 150055 – 00509
Tangaza University Langata South Road,
Karen – Nairobi

For any inquiries about the venue or the event, contact aacose@tangaza.ac.ke

Get Your Ticket Now!

Experience the conference wherever you are. Register early bird tickets. Tune in live for the keynotes and watch sessions on demand. Also be sure to join our event

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