Maralal Makerspace is an idea in motion — a journey to build a shared space for learning, making, and innovation in Maralal, Samburu.
We’re starting from scratch: no fancy labs, no guaranteed funding, just a community that believes access to technology and education should not depend on geography.
This is the beginning. And you’re invited to help build it.
Makerspaces are physical spaces for people, including kids, that serve as gathering points where communities of new and experienced makers connect to work on real and personally meaningful projects, informed by helpful mentors and expertise, using new technologies and traditional tools.
Join as a founding member. Support as a patron. Learn as a community.
Build the future from right here in Maralal.
SECTION 1: WHY THIS JOURNEY MATTERS
Talent Is Everywhere. Infrastructure Is Not.
Maralal is rich in curiosity, creativity, and young people eager to learn. What’s missing is access — access to tools, mentors, safe learning spaces, and hands-on experiences.
Without that access, talent goes untapped.
This makerspace exists to change that reality, one tool, one learner, one experiment at a time.
SECTION 2: WHAT WE’RE BUILDING (FROM ZERO)
Not a Building First — a Community First
Before machines, there must be people. We are building:
- A community of learners and makers
- A culture of hands-on learning
- A shared vision for STEM and digital skills
- Youth‑led innovation and problem‑solving projects.
- Then, a physical makerspace equipped with tools
This journey starts with people signing up, learning together, and advocating for a shared space.
SECTION 3: THE DIGITAL DESERT REALITY (MARALAL)
Building Where Access Is Rare
Maralal sits far from the centers where technology and opportunity naturally concentrate.
Internet is inconsistent.
Devices are shared.
Exposure is limited.
But that is exactly why this work matters.
A makerspace here is not a luxury — it is infrastructure for the future.
We are not importing solutions.
We are growing them locally.
SECTION 4: PHASES OF THE JOURNEY
How the Makerspace Will Take Shape
Phase 1: Community & Membership
Recruit learners, educators, volunteers, and supporters.
Phase 2: Learning Without Walls
Workshops, WhatsApp learning groups, community library resources.
Phase 3: Space & Tools
Advocacy for a physical space, fundraising for essential tools.
Phase 4: Build & Make
Hands-on projects, robotics, electronics, coding, innovation challenges.
Phase 5: Showcase & Scale
Public demos, youth projects, county and partner engagement.
SECTION 5: JOIN THE JOURNEY (MEMBERSHIP SIGN-UP)
Be a Founding Member
Founding members are not customers — they are co-builders.
As a member, you:
Shape what the makerspace becomes.
Learn alongside others.
Get early access to workshops and resources.
Become part of Samburu’s digital future
Become a Founding Member
BUILDING IN THE OPEN (UPDATES & STORIES)
Documenting the Journey with our photo stories.
We will document everything: This is how trust is built.
WE NEED SPACE & TOOLS (ADVOCACY)
A Makerspace Needs a Home
To move from idea to reality, we are advocating for:
- A shared physical space in Maralal
- Basic furniture and utilities
- Starter STEM tools and kits
If you represent:
- County government
- An institution
- A community organization
- A business or NGO
We want to partner with you.
Testimonials
What could we accomplish if together we invested in all of our brain power?
I have interacted with the community that is Transcend Tech which has proven to be a young, vibrant and energetic youth that have gone and still willing to go that extra mile to bridge the digital divide in Maralal, Samburu.
Carrington Kinyanjui
Founder; The Kisima Library Project
I had an opportunity as a facilitator and a judge in one of Transcend's AI & ML Hackathon on August 2023, empowered with the right resources and tools, this startup is capable of becoming the next unicorn.
Roger
Software Developer
Through our platform, individuals have been able to bridge the gap between language and technology, gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful entrepreneurs.
George
Librarian
Although our platform has been successful in promoting entrepreneurship in the Samburu community, there are still challenges that need to be addressed. However, we continues to work towards finding solutions to these challenges.
Naftali
Freelancer & Junior Developer
Small Support. Big Impact.
Not everyone can donate tools or space. But everyone can help.
Support the journey by:
Active Members
Denzel Lenemiria
Role: Founding Member and MentorKelvin Leshore
Role: Founding MemberPhilip Leakono
Role: Founding Member: LearnerContact Us
Connecting Through Conversations: Reach Out to Us Today!