Severe liver issues caused by ammonia and worsened by poor sewer systems, inspired two high school students to innovate a solution to help a relative and others facing similar cases.
Anne Kanyiva and Vincent Job, both aged 16 and students at Hon. John Njoroge Secondary School, have been cleared to showcase their Ammonia Elimination Plant innovation at the Young Scientists Kenya (YSK) National Science and Technology exhibition slated for between 19th and 23rd of August 2024 in Nairobi.
Watching his aunt struggle with severe liver issues caused by ammonia is what inspired Vincent and his friend Anne to find a way to help.
“Seeing my aunt’s pain made me want to make a difference. We wanted to help people who live in places where pollution is a big problem,” said Vincent.
Their Ammonia Elimination Plant tackles the harmful effects of untreated urea, which releases ammonia into the environment. This can lead to dangerous algae blooms in water, which can kill fish and affect human health. Their innovation uses activated carbon to trap ammonia and natural bacteria to break down the urea, making the water safer for human consumption and the environment.
The plant is not only effective but also affordable. The bacteria used are common and cheap, making it a practical solution for many communities dealing with pollution.
Young Scientist Kenya, National Director, Dr Victor Mwongera says the focus of the 2024 National Science and Technology Exhibition is on using science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) “to champion climate change solutions.”
Anne and Vincent’s love for Chemistry and Biology played a big role in their project. Their teachers, Roseline Moraa and Abdalla, helped them understand how to use these subjects to solve real problems.
“Chemistry and Biology are more than just classes for us; they’re tools to make a real difference,” says Anne.
They say they manage their time carefully to balance their studies with their projects, setting aside specific hours each week for their work.
Their story is one of hope and determination. Despite their young age, Anne and Vincent are showing us that teenagers can make a real impact on the world. They dream of future careers in Environmental Science, Chemical Engineering, or Computer Science, and hope their project will inspire others to tackle environmental challenges with creativity and passion.
Anne and Vincent’s journey from personal loss to innovative success shows that even young people can drive meaningful change. Their Ammonia Elimination Plant not only offers a practical solution to pollution but also highlights the power of using personal experiences to make a difference.
At least 200 students and 100 teachers are set to showcase innovations at the 2024 National Science and Technology Exhibition. Entry to the exhibition is free. At least 1,300 students from 390 schools in Kenya are expected attend the expo virtually.