An ambitious innovator from Kitale in Trans Nzoia County has developed a wearable microphone harness system. The transformative system aims to revolutionise public speaking and reporting by eliminating the need to hold a microphone by hand while speaking.
Kipkogei Yego, the brains behind the innovation, said the idea was inspired by challenges commonly faced by public speakers, political and religious leaders, masters of ceremonies (MCs), and journalists, who often struggle to manage handheld microphones, mobile phones, written notes, and other accessories.
What inspired Kitale man to develop hands-free microphone harness?
In an exclusive interview with Uasin Gishu News, Yego stated that on many occasions, he has observed situations where microphones are snatched or grabbed from speakers during tense political rallies, public meetings, or conflict situations, disrupting communication and compromising safety.
“I have realised that sometimes, public speakers sweat profusely while handling hand-held microphones and other devices. My invention creates a practical solution that allows journalists, pastors, politicians and other public speakers to communicate comfortably and freely,” Yego said.
The invention that has been patented took him more than three years to develop. It underwent several prototype stages before reaching its final form.
“It initially looked like a simple problem, but later turned out to be a complex engineering challenge. I tested different designs and materials before settling on a workable prototype,” Yego explained.
The soft-spoken and keen innovator revealed that inadequate funds and access to materials slowed down the project. Through persistence and push to solve the identified problem, he came up with a functional innovation that requires some improvements and fine-tuning before it is mass-produced.
Challenges Kenyan innovators face in securing a patent
Before the invention was completed, he encountered an enormous hurdle: securing patent protection. Limited financial resources barred him from engaging a patent agent or a lawyer. Officers at the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) supported and guided him on how to patent his innovation.
“Using borrowed money, I had to draft the patent application myself. Although it was a highly demanding process, I managed to submit the application and secure a priority date,” he said.
The millennial described KIPI’s online patent application platform as a game changer. “The system has made innovation more accessible and affordable for ordinary inventors. However, I call for further improvements to make it more user-friendly,” Yego appealed.
He believes that the wearable harness will transform preaching in churches and mosques, communication in lecture halls, political rallies, weddings, funerals and most importantly, media reporting.
His invention carries a message of peace, love and environment whereby he argues that Kenya will prosper if Kenyans embrace peace, love for one another and conserve their environment. He passionately appealed to the national leaders led by President William Ruto, religious organisations, business leaders, development partners, and members of the public to support the innovation so that he can produce them in mass for both local and international markets.
His focus now is to complete the patenting process and secure meaningful investment that will enable him to do large-scale manufacturing of the wearable microphone harness.
Yego believes that his innovation has the potential to become a Kitale-made solution with global appeal, improving convenience, safety, and efficiency in public communication. This is only possible with the right support.
