Inside the ground floor of a rented apartment in Rongai, Eugene Awimbo is steadily turning a decade-long dream into a working reality. Surrounded by metal parts, tools, and handmade rocket models, his space journey is powered by discipline, patience, and a clear vision to place Kenya on the global space innovation map. Awimbo has spent over ten years experimenting, learning, and building, without any formal academic background in aerospace engineering.
“I have been doing this for over 10 years now. I did not study this in school; it is all passion,” Awimbo says.
His work reflects long hours of self learning driven by curiosity and consistency. Inspired by global space advancements, including the work of Elon Musk, Awimbo focuses on adapting space science concepts to local conditions. Instead of waiting for perfect funding or advanced laboratories, he works with what is available, building rockets from locally sourced steel and aluminium while relying heavily on online learning platforms for technical knowledge.
How is Eugene Awimbo advancing space science in Kenya?
Awimbo’s mission extends beyond personal achievement. A significant part of his work targets education and youth engagement. He collaborates with schools to introduce students to space science through practical demonstrations and interactive learning sessions.
“I target schools mostly. In collaboration, I go to schools and teach students on space science and exploration, to help them become future scientists and astronauts,” Awimbo adds.
By simplifying complex concepts and using physical rocket models, he makes space exploration accessible and relatable to young learners. His approach helps demystify science while showing students that innovation can start from ordinary environments.
What are his plans for Kenya’s space industry?
Looking ahead, Awimbo hopes to establish a recreational and educational centre where Kenyans can visit, learn about rocketry, and safely launch model rockets. This space would serve both educational and recreational purposes, encouraging curiosity while nurturing scientific talent.
He is also actively engaging with national institutions to strengthen his work. “I’m working closely with the Kenya Space Agency to find areas of collaboration and guidance. We are in constant contact, and we hope that soon we will be able to advance my innovation. I want to help advance Kenya’s space exploration,” an optimistic Awimbo says.
Awimbo’s journey highlights how passion-driven innovation can grow into national impact. His work stands as a reminder that meaningful scientific progress can begin in small spaces, driven by persistence, community engagement, and belief in local potential.
By Lucky Anyanje