Rongai Man Builds Rockets from Scratch, Pursues Kenya’s Space Exploration Dream and Inspires Future Scientists

In a modest apartment in Nairobi’s Ongata Rongai, a Kenyan innovator is making his dream a reality. Eugene Awimbo, a self-taught engineer, has spent over a decade building rocket models from scratch. His small workshop is filled with tools, wires, and sheets of aluminium. Two large rocket frames stand proudly, the result of years of trial, error and dedication.

Awimbo’s path into rocketry is unusual. He has no formal aerospace training. “I have been doing this for over 10 years. I did not study it in school; it is all passion,” he says. Inspired by Elon Musk and countless hours of online research, Awimbo aims to contribute to Kenya’s space ambitions. He may not launch rockets into orbit yet, but his models support space education.

He focuses on schools and young learners. “I collaborate with schools to help students understand space and inspire them to become future scientists and astronauts,” he explains. Using local materials like steel and aluminium, he tests designs every day. He refines prototypes while studying online tutorials. His apartment has become a creative hub, where ideas meet action.

Awimbo’s dream goes further than building models. He wants an educational and recreational centre for Kenyans of all ages. People would learn about space, build rockets, and take part in safe launches. “I am working closely with the Kenya Space Agency for guidance and collaboration,” he says. “We hope to advance my innovations and boost Kenya’s space goals.”

As his rockets slowly take shape, Awimbo keeps looking skyward. His story shows that dreams can thrive in unexpected places. For Kenya, his work sparks hope that homegrown talent may one day lift the nation’s space aspirations into reality.