More than 833 learners from 90 schools and educational institutions across Kenya participated in the August Mathematics Contest organised by Kiwimbi NGO to identify and nurture exceptional mathematical talent.
The contest, held at Kiwimbi Library in Amagoro, Teso North, brought together learners in three categories: Form Three and Four, Grade Nine and 10, and Grade Six to Eight. Category One had 242 participants, Category Two 321, while Category Three had 270 learners.
A total of Sh97,000 was awarded to outstanding learners across the three categories. The winner in the Form Three and Four category, Edmond Edwin Imo of Kanga School, received Sh20,000, while second-placed Lenney Barrack of Maseno School received Sh10,000.
Winners in the Grade Nine and 10 and Grade Six to Eight categories each received Sh10,000, while other top performers received cash prizes ranging from Sh1,000 to Sh5,000.
Learners who reached the fourth round received certificates of recognition, while the top three performers in each category were awarded medals.
The competition consisted of four rounds of written tests followed by an oral round involving rapid-response questions. The winner was determined by the participant who answered the highest number of questions correctly.
Kiwimbi NGO Chief Executive Officer Prof. Olubayi Olubayi said the contest was designed to identify learners with exceptional mathematical ability, particularly those capable of solving complex problems accurately and within a short period.
He said the initiative seeks to nurture learners’ interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and prepare them for careers requiring strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
The August contest was the third edition of the competition. The inaugural contest, held in December 2025, attracted 400 learners, with the best performer receiving an iPad and Sh10,000. The second edition held in April this year attracted more than 800 learners.
Prof. Olubayi said Kiwimbi plans to hold another contest in December, with an increased number of prizes, before expanding it into a national mathematics competition next year.
He said the long-term goal was to nurture mathematical geniuses capable of tackling complex problems rapidly and prepare a generation of young people for demanding STEM careers and Kenya’s industrialisation.
The contest attracted learners from Busia, Bungoma, Kisumu, Kakamega, Siaya, Vihiga, Kiambu, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia, Turkana, and Bomet counties.
Kiwimbi General Manager Catherene Malala said the organisation would continue supporting learners in the community to realise their full potential.
By Moses Wekesa
