Google Developer Group (GDG) Strathmore hosted over 700 developers for a DevFest Competition, the biggest developer event in Kenya.

GDG DevFest is an annual event organized by independent GDGs to learn about Google technologies. It is run by Google for independent community developers, who develop new softwares and discuss latest Google technologies. There are several GDG communities in Kenya which run in different counties. Strathmore University GDG is setup for developers closer to the Madaraka area. Other GDG communities include GDG Laikipia, GDG Kimathi, GDG Kiambu and GDG Maseno.

At the event, developers learnt from Google representatives who shared the latest trends in the Google market. Martin Kariithi – Android Partnership Manager Sub-Saharan Africa- was the key guest. Communities also participated in a Firebase Appfest Hackathon, the first of its kind in Kenya. Firebase is a Google mobile platform that helps developers create applications quickly. Members were given five hours to develop solutions based on applications developed by Firebase, with the winning team receiving $1,000 prize money.

The winners’ Team VIP – Collins Kiprop and Victor Ngure – both from Strathmore University, developed a home lighting solution that is controlled by a phone.

The 1^st Runners-up Team Strychnine by – Clive Makamara – also from Strathmore University – developed a parking solution that could help City Council with payment of parking fees.

Members also attended code-lab sessions to learn development programmes from basic to expert levels. Nairobi Women-in-Machine, a group of machine learning enthusiasts composed of Women Techmakers, largely benefitted from this session as they got an opportunity to improve their skills further.

 

Students who wish to join GDG Strathmore University can follow the link here.