Kampala Impact Day 2024, a hybrid event is redefining the entrepreneurial landscape by empowering entrepreneurs with tools and connections to drive sustainable growth. Rooted in the Triple Bottom Line principle—People, Planet, and Profit—the event aims to provide an inclusive platform for social entrepreneurs to drive meaningful change within their communities and beyond. Entrepreneurs also have the opportunity to exhibit their businesses, highlighting innovative solutions that address societal challenges while promoting environmental sustainability and economic growth.

The Kampala Impact Day underscores the importance of collaboration among entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem leaders, fostering synergies that amplify impact.

One key activity of the event will be a pitching session, where six (6) entrepreneurs will present their ventures to a panel of potential investors. With only three minutes to captivate the audience, they will showcase their innovations, market potential, and readiness for investment. The stakes are high, as awards await those with the most compelling pitches, including recognition for innovation, teamwork, and business scalability. This competitive segment aims to inspire and reward excellence in social entrepreneurship.

The entrepreneurs that will be pitching include;

1. Ethan Bampeire; Founder of Neexa AI, an AI startup helping businesses sell more and grow effortlessly through automation of marketing and sales.
2. Emmanuel Twesigy; CEO and Co-founder of Everlend Agritech Limited, a B2B digital platform that allows smallholder farmers access climate-resilient food crop seeds for planting. The platform also is an online farmers’ marketplace where agro-produce buyers meet with sellers
3. Steven Kavuma; Founder of Revmake, an energy tech company whose mission is to create a circular economy for lithium-ion batteries that has a positive effect on the planet, people, and profit. They aim to add value by treating used lithium-ion batteries not as waste but as a valuable material for recreation.
4. Wendy Gloria Musiimenta; Founder of Nile Chocolates, a micro-batch company that aims to sensitize the community of farmers and schools about the food science behind cocoa farming and hence promoting value addition at the origin, environmental preservation, but also emphasizing health aspects
5. Doreen Jean Nsasiirwe; Founder of Westlink Delicacy API Group Limited, a startup offering natural, nutritious, and sustainable alternatives to synthetic health products to enhance the health and wellness of its customers while tackling the critical issues of poor health and environmental degradation.
6. Miriam Akoramazima; Founder of Glory Revolution Limited, a startup with a mission to combat malnutrition and food scarcity.

The post The 6 Entrepreneurs Pitching at the 8th Annual Kampala Impact Day appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

With one in two people lacking access to essential healthcare, leveraging innovation and developing new models for scaling access to healthcare is critical. Health entrepreneurship, particularly women-led models, is fundamental to addressing this gap. WiNFUND is on a mission to transform healthcare access to the most vulnerable by leveraging the power of female entrepreneurship. It advocates for equitable access to financing and invests in the power of women-led startups addressing global health challenges.

WiNFUND is more than just a financial partner; it’s a movement to amplify women’s voices in healthcare innovation. By supporting female-led initiatives, they seek to drive meaningful change in the health sector while promoting gender equity in entrepreneurship.

The non-profit initiative is searching for ambitious and innovative women entrepreneurs whose solutions are already making a difference in healthcare across Africa. Here are the key criteria:

• Ventures must be women-led, emphasizing the power of women in shaping the future of healthcare.
• Solutions should directly address access to healthcare in Africa, tackling pressing challenges such as affordability, availability, or quality of services.
• Applicants should be operating ventures at the revenue stage, ready to scale, and able to demonstrate their investability.
• WiNFUND values innovative and sustainable business models that ensure long-term success while delivering measurable social and economic benefits.

Selected entrepreneurs will receive up to USD$250,000 (approx. UGX925.5 million) in funding. This significant financial boost is designed to help ventures scale their solutions, reach more communities, and achieve greater impact.

The prize goes beyond financial gain —as WiNFUND opens doors to an expansive network of industry partners, investors, and other entrepreneurs. This ecosystem is vital for building collaborations, securing additional resources, and navigating the challenges of scaling a business. In addition, WiNFUND provides bespoke support to help businesses thrive. From strategic guidance to operational advice, entrepreneurs gain access to the tools and expertise needed for sustainable growth.

WiNFUND’s initiative has already demonstrated the transformative potential of supporting women entrepreneurs. Previous funding cycles have enabled startups to expand their reach to underserved communities, innovate & scale solutions that improve maternal health, chronic disease management, and health education, and build sustainable models that attract additional funding and partnerships.

Women play a critical role in Africa’s healthcare ecosystem, often as caregivers, nurses, and community health workers. However, their contributions as innovators and entrepreneurs remain underrepresented. Supporting women in leadership positions ensures diverse perspectives in problem-solving, leading to more inclusive and effective healthcare solutions.

The WiNFUND initiative is a remarkable example of how technology and innovation can drive social impact, especially in the healthcare sector, which is critical for the growth and development of any nation. By supporting women-led health startups, WiNFUND is empowering women entrepreneurs to solve complex healthcare challenges, create jobs, and make a positive difference in their communities —in other words, it’s fostering systemic change that benefits entire communities.

WiNFUND is partly financed through the sale of WiNFUND non-fundable tokens (NFTs) designed by Rwandan artist Christella Bijou. The collection has been supported and made available in close collaboration with Tokenproof.

The deadline to apply for the fund is December 13, 2024, at 3pm CEST (5pm EAT). APPLY HERE (LINK)

The post Women-led Health Innovations Across Africa Invited to Apply For WiNFUND appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

The 6th edition of the MEST Africa Challenge centered on the AgriTech sector, is open to startups from Benin, Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Mali, and Togo. The winning startup will receive USD$50,000 in equity funding, access to MEST’s extensive global network, opportunities to valuable partnerships, mentorship, and investment opportunities to accelerate its growth and global presence.

Eligibility criteria: 

• Early-stage technology startup.
• Monthly Recurring Revenue: A minimum of USD$5,000.
• Funding raised: USD$0 to USD$1 million cumulative.
• Years in existence: 3 years and below.
• Traction: At least 6 months of recurring revenue.
• Founding team: At least 2 founding team members.
• Registered in Delaware (This is preferred).
• Any industry.
• Any business model (B2B, B2C, B2B2C, B2G etc…).
• All participants must pitch in English.

In the rapidly evolving world of AgriTech, innovation needs the right conditions to flourish. While many African entrepreneurs possess bold visions, they often face challenges in accessing the necessary resources and networks to bring their ideas to fruition. The MEST Africa Challenge is here to bridge that gap, offering startups the opportunity to “Find Their Soil” by providing critical support, funding, and mentorship.

“‘Find Your Soil’ is a call to action for AgriTech innovators to discover the ideal environment where their vision can flourish. Through the MEST Africa Challenge, we aim to support this ecosystem by providing the necessary resources, visibility, and strategic support for these entrepreneurs to thrive,” Ashwin Ravichandran, Portfolio Advisor, MEST Africa, said in a press statement.

MEST Africa is committed to fostering job creation and economic growth across Africa through software entrepreneurship. By offering specialized tech entrepreneurial training and investment opportunities, the organization empowers Africa’s brightest minds to build and scale impactful businesses.

Since its inception, MEST has invested over USD$30 million into training more than 2,000 entrepreneurs and has supported the launch of 90 early-stage tech startups across sectors including AgriTech, FinTech, SaaS, eCommerce, Digital Media, and Healthcare. This year presents an unparalleled opportunity for AgriTech entrepreneurs to “Find Their Soil” and take their businesses to the next level.

MEST is accepting applications until October 4th, 2024. APPLY NOW.

The post West African Startups Vie for $50,000 in MEST Africa Challenge appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

The competition received nearly 2,000 applications across most African countries, with 24 emerging as semi-finalists representing 17 African nations.

The rigorous selection process emphasized criteria such as innovation, market potential and traction, business model, and founder and team. The high caliber of entries underscores the competitiveness and dynamism within Africa’s agripreneurial ecosystem.

In a press statement, GoGettaz co-founder Strive Masiyiwa, commented, “This initiative embodies our commitment to nurturing Africa’s entrepreneurial talent. From the large pool of applicants this year, these 24 semi-finalists represent only a small cross-section of the continent’s visionary young entrepreneurs, a testament to the hope and talent of youth across Africa today.”

Masiyiwa noted that the innovative agrifood businesses, and the impactful work of so many others who have taken part in the GoGettaz competition over the years, are crucial for growing prosperity and food security across Africa. “Our GoGettaz entrepreneurs are not just sitting around waiting for problems to be solved; they are busy working to solve them, inventing climate-friendly solutions, and using new technologies to tackle age-old challenges in this critical sector,” he said. “We are so proud of them.”

Svein Tore Holsether, GoGettaz co-founder said the impact of GoGettaz goes far beyond the competition itself, as they uncover more and more talent and innovation across Africa.

“I am thrilled with the quality of this year’s competitors and excited to see the opportunities and collaboration emerging to accelerate progress toward a more resilient and food-secure Africa,” said Holsether. “I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the semi-finalists and commend them for the great work that they are doing.”

Previous editions of the GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Competition have produced remarkable success stories to illustrate its profound impact. Esther Kimani, a past winner, revolutionized farming practices in Kenya with her innovative pest-detection technology. Her journey from competition winner to industry leader underscores GoGettaz’s role in fostering groundbreaking solutions and empowering agripreneurs to drive meaningful change in their communities.

SEE ALSO: RAE CALLS FOR APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2025 AFRICA PRIZE FOR ENGINEERING INNOVATION

The finalists are competing for a grand prize of USD$100,000. In addition to the grand prize, an additional USD$60,000 will be rewarded in Impact Awards. The judges of this year’s competition will be looking to award ventures that make a significant impact in one or more of the following areas: improving rural livelihoods, nutrition, climate-related solutions, technology, gender impact, natural resources conservation, and job creation

The GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize competition finals will be held at the AFS Summit, in Kigali, Rwanda in September 2024.

The 24 semi-finalists include;

1. Mogale Maleka, Agang Bokamoso Farms (AB Farms).
2. Samson Turimurukundo, AGRI Organic Inputs.
3. Salimata Toh, Agribanana.
4. Lapaque Mbumba, Antarctik.
5. Marlene Kindji, Bademe Natural Foods.
6. Adeline Pelage, Biscuiterie BOBO.
7. Elhadji Malick Sagne, Cactus Innovation.
8. Amir Redwan, Chipchip.
9. Tracy Mapfumo, Eny’s Treats.
10. Lesly Marange, GLYTIME FOODS PVT LTD.
11. Deborah Nzarubara, Grecom.
12. Kidist Amedie, Guaro Farms.
13. Habib Mestiri, Hayat Technology.
14. Fatima El Khou, Jafife.
15. Sokayna Bellam, Jodoor.
16. Iddi Mohamed Faried, Kodu Technology.
17. Tisya Mukuna, La BOITE.
18. Mochesane Albert Mpali, Lema Agriventures Pty Ltd.
19. Irene Simon Ivambi, MREMBO NATURALS LIMITED.
20. Mostafa Hassanen, Plug N Grow.
21. Charles Oyamo, Rethread Africa.
22. Riantsoa Mialinarindra, Sakafo Madagascar.
23. Arristine Mendes, SHADDAÏ AQUACULTURE.
24. Emadago Oghenekevwe, Valley Bee.

GoGettaz is a transformative platform dedicated to nurturing young agri-food innovators across Africa.

Since its inception in 2019, GoGettaz has played a pivotal role in identifying, supporting, and celebrating Africa’s most promising entrepreneurs driving sustainable change and economic growth through agricultural ventures spanning the agrifood value chain from seed to fork. By providing access to leadership development, global networks, and awards, GoGettaz empowers participants to grow their innovative ideas into impactful business enterprises that address pressing agricultural challenges and contribute to food security and job creation across the continent.

ALSO READ: INNOVATE AFRICA LAUNCHES WITH $2.5M ANGEL FUND TO BACK 20 STARTUPS

The post 24 Agripreneurs Selected for the 2024 GoGettaz Prize Competition appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Since 2019, the African funding landscape has witnessed positive growth, with disclosed exits surpassing USD$2.3 billion (approx. UGX8.53 trillion) — representing a significant 13.4% of the total USD$17.2 billion (approx. UGX63.8 trillion) raised by African startups. Despite this growth, early-stage founders face challenges navigating the path from ideation to market fit. The persistent lack of early-stage funding further compounds these difficulties, hindering many startups from reaching their full potential and contributing to the continent’s economic growth.

SEE ALSO: AFRICAN TECH STARTUP INVESTMENT FELL BY 28% TO $2.4BN IN 2023 AS GLOBAL “FUNDING WINTER” BEGINS TO BITE

With a mission to empower startups to thrive in Africa’s ever-evolving tech landscape, Innovate Africa Fund will provide insight-driven capital that helps founders accelerate the journey from Minimum Viable Product (MVP) to Product-Market Fit (PMF). The goal is to facilitate the infrastructure that enables founders to unlock growth through audacious problem-solving, supported by access to a comprehensive ecosystem of resources.

With an average investment of USD$50,000 (approx. UGX185,441,250), the venture fund offers a comprehensive support package to propel promising startups toward success. The robust suite of critical advisory resources includes expert guidance in finance, governance, public relations, and strategy, ensuring a solid foundation for growth.

Through its Product Leadership Accelerator, the fund delivers crucial product development support, helping startups refine their offerings and achieve product-market fit. It also facilitates talent resourcing via an extensive partner network, connecting startups with skilled professionals across various domains.

The fund’s portfolio strategy encompasses first cheque funding, a refined product operating model, valuable network and partnerships, assistance with revenue model iterations, and comprehensive operations and governance advisory. This holistic approach aims to accelerate startups’ path to success, providing them with the tools, resources, and connections needed to navigate early-stage challenges and achieve sustainable growth.

Innovate Africa Fund is anchored by a network of experienced operators and product specialists across Africa, providing a vigorous foundation of knowledge and experience to guide early-stage founders towards success.

Speaking about the launch of the fund, Kristin Wilson, Managing Partner of Innovate Africa Fund said they have witnessed the struggles that early-stage African founders face up close. “We know that brilliant ideas often lack the resources they need to truly thrive,” she said. “It’s not just about funding, it’s about deep expertise and strong connections–and our investment strategy breaks the cycle of innovators being at the mercy of those with too much leverage and too little knowledge.”

She adds “As a founder-first catalyst fund, we provide insight-driven capital to help founders accelerate their journey from MVP to PMF. By providing this support and funding, innovators can focus their efforts on building sustainable, transformative businesses that solve wicked problems and return value to investors.”

Christian Idiodi, Founder of Innovate Africa Foundation said through the Innovate ecosystem, they connect their portfolio companies with seasoned operators and advisors, both in Africa and globally, to ensure they get the expertise they need.

“The African diaspora has sent over USD$150 billion (approx. UGX556.3 trillion) back to the continent in the past three years, but financial support alone isn’t enough,” explained Idiodi. “Many are eager to contribute their talent and expertise to impactful ventures, and that’s where we come in. It takes an ecosystem to build a startup.”

Idiodi says by reaching founders at a very early stage, they can connect startups to key partners and help foster their success. “Ultimately, our decisions today will shape who builds, owns, and benefits from the next wave of disruptive technology in emerging markets,” he said.

Also read:

• • Madica invests $600,000 in three African startups that showcase remarkable solutions
  • Seed, Grants, and Funding Rounds: What’s the difference?
  • The challenges faced by female founders in the startup world
  • OP-ED: Startups should adopt a go-to-market strategy

Innovate Africa Fund is part of an ecosystem of companies, working together to empower Africa with meaningful technology. Through the fund, Innovate Founders will have access to the Product Leadership Accelerator, Pan-African Product Tours, InspireAfrica Gatherings, and Silicon Valley Product Group Coaching Programs.

Applications are open (APPLY HERE IF YOU MEET CRITERIA) for founders across Africa who meet the six criteria for screening: Character, Credibility, Capacity, Courage, Competence, and Context.

ALSO READ: RAE CALLS FOR APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2025 AFRICA PRIZE FOR ENGINEERING INNOVATION

The post Innovate Africa Launches With $2.5M Angel Fund to Back 20 Startups appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

The Africa Prize 2025 is open to engineers and entrepreneurs across Africa who have developed or are developing new technological innovations promoting the welfare and economic development of a country or countries in sub–Saharan Africa and is designed to address a development need or specific challenge facing that country.

The announcement of the call comes a few days after RAE announced the winner and runners-up of Africa Prize 2024 at an event held in Nairobi, Kenya on Thursday, June 13th, 2024.

Esther Kimani (from Kenya) was crowned as the overall winner for her solar-powered tool that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) enabled cameras to detect and identify agricultural pests and diseases in crops early —reducing crop losses by up to 30% and increasing yields by as much as 40%.

Kimani received a grant of USD$60,000 (approx. UGX224.7 million, KSH8.3 million) the largest ever awarded to a winner in this competition —the reason, the Africa Prize was celebrating its 10th Anniversary. Kimani’s funding will support the development and scaling of her device, bringing its benefits to a wider audience.

The runners-up in Africa Prize 2024 each received USD$19,000 (approx. UGX71.1 million, KSH2.4 million) to further improve their solutions. The runners-up were;

1. Kevin Maina (Kenya) — Eco Tiles: Eco-friendly roofing materials made from recycled plastic. Stronger and lighter than traditional tiles, this innovation tackles both plastic pollution and high building costs.
2. Rory Assandey (Cote d’Ivoire) — La Ruche Health: An AI chatbot tool on WhatsApp, “Kiko,” connects communities to vital health information and services. It also includes a digital backend solution to streamline documentation, billing, and data sharing for healthcare practitioners.
3. Martin Tumusiime (Uganda) — Yo-Waste: A mobile application that connects homes and businesses to independent agents for efficient on-demand rubbish collection and disposal.

The 2025 Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation, launched at the 2024 finals, is now open for entries. The academy is seeking scalable engineering solutions to local challenges. Individuals and small teams living and working in sub-Saharan Africa are invited to enter before October 15th, 2024. Here is the APPLICATION GUIDE. Applicants have been advised to read the guidance notes, FAQ, and eligibility before submitting their application.

Shortlisted candidates go through eight months of tailored training and mentoring culminating in a showcase event. Prize money of up to £60,000 is split across five prizes, with the overall winner receiving £25,000 along with three runners-up, who are each awarded £10,000 and a One to Watch prize of £5,000.

The Africa Prize provides a unique opportunity to support innovative minds tackling significant global challenges while promoting economic prosperity and sustainable development in Africa through engineering.

The Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation was launched in March 2014 to stimulate, celebrate, and reward innovation and entrepreneurship across sub-Saharan Africa. Since then it has provided invaluable training, mentoring, and communications support to 149 businesses across 23 countries, and established an alumni program with 71% of Africa Prize alumni currently generating revenue.

The alumni have raised USD$39 million (approx. UGX146 billion) in grants and equity.

Notably, Uganda has managed to have two (2) overall winners in the competition. Anatoli Kirigwajjo, founder of YUNGA, a local rescue network providing low-cost security by connecting neighbors with the police, and Brian Gitta, founder of Matibabu, a device that tests for malaria quickly, accurately, and without having to draw blood. Kirigwajjo and Gitta won the competition in 2023 and 2018 respectively.

On the other hand, Uganda has also had six (6) finalists and eleven (11) shortlisted for all the competition. (ALL WINNERS IN ALL COMPETITIONS)

The post RAE Calls for Applications for the 2025 Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

This initiative underpins the company’s ambition of leading digital solutions for Uganda’s progress based on the belief that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern connected life. The three-year initiative, with an investment worth UGX4.5 billion, aims to create 150 startups and equip 8,000 youths with digital skills transforming Uganda’s population into a digitally skilled workforce as the country positions itself to reap its dividend from the ongoing Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).

For this second phase, the telco collaborates with the Ministry of ICT & National Guidance, the National ICT Innovation Hub, Centenary Technology Services, MUBS Entrepreneurship Innovation & Incubation Centre, and Engage Consult to ensure the program’s success and sustainability.

The second phase of the MTN ACE Program was launched at the National ICT Innovation Hub in Nakawa with the State Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo, Ps. for the Ministry of ICT & National Guidance, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, CTO at Centenary Technology Service, Peter Kahiigi, and Steven Kirenga, Head of Product & Business Development at Centenary Technology Service, among others in attendance.

While speaking at the launch event, MTN Uganda CEO, Ms. Sylvia Mulinge remarked that as the second phase of the MTN ACE program takes shape, the telco is more committed than ever to empowering the youth to become innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders in the digital age.

“The MTN ACE program seamlessly aligns with MTN’s Ambition 2025 of leading digital solutions for Uganda’s progress and supporting the government’s development goals in the National Development Plan III and Vision 2040, especially in addressing the high youth unemployment rate—a challenge projected to grow as the population expands,” explained Mulinge.

Hon. Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo appreciated the partners’ effort in developing a digitally experienced and empowered generation. She encouraged innovation and productivity across people, organizations, businesses, and government.

The first phase of the MTN ACE program which has been running since December 2022, saw 185 youths graduate across three distinct programs; MTN ACE Tech, MTN ACE Career program, and MTN ACE Skills program. Additionally, 20 enterprises were selected for ACE Tech acceleration, and 15 for incubation, demonstrating the program’s significant impact on nurturing youth skills and enterprises.

Also read:

• • MTN Uganda unveils 118 women suppliers under the AWE Program
  • MTN Foundation celebrates the graduation of 70 girls under the MTN Girls in Tech program
  • MTN Uganda unveils the ‘AWE Project’ to pave the way for women entrepreneurs

MTN Uganda has sunk UGX1.5 billion in the first phase of the program.

With UGX4.5 billion earmarked for the second phase, a bigger reach is promised. MTN will set up four regional ICT and innovation hubs in the main national public universities; Makerere University (Central), Gulu University (North), Kabale University (West), and Busitema University (East). These hubs will be established in close collaboration with the program partners.

The hubs will create an environment for ICT innovators who face challenges with workspace, limited internet connectivity, and the need for creative spaces that spur innovative thinking. The construction of these hubs in these regions is to showcase that the program is national, ensuring that youth from all regions of the country can participate and benefit from the program.

The MTN ACE program continues to focus on three key areas (1); the MTN ACE Tech which upskills youth interested in tech-related innovations, (2); the MTN ACE Career empowers fresh graduates with workplace skills and internship placements, and lastly (3) the MTN ACE Skills is tailored for youths in or out of school, equipping them with entrepreneurial skills to start businesses. You can join any of the programs here.

Beyond the MTN ACE program, the MTN Foundation is involved in several other youth empowerment initiatives, including MTN Skills Academy and MTN Internet Bus —providing the youth with digital skills, and enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial capabilities in Uganda and beyond.

MTN Uganda remains dedicated to fostering digital literacy and innovation to drive economic growth and development.

The second phase of the MTN ACE program is a testament to the telco’s commitment to empowering the youth and transforming Uganda’s digital and subsequently, economic landscape.

ALSO READ: MTN UGANDA BOOSTS DIGITAL LITERACY AND PROMOTES EDUCATION IN KARAMOJA

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Hive Colab has formalized a Memorandum of Understanding with the prestigious South Korean firm, Dain Leaders. The partnership is more than a business deal; it is an important step towards developing closer ties between Uganda and South Korea and furthering joint initiatives to support entrepreneurs in Uganda’s tech sector.

The MoU affirms both parties’ dedication to advancing their respective businesses’ continued growth and mutual benefit.

The terms of the MoU outline a series of exchange activities, tailored to address the specific needs and priorities of their startups across various sectors, including ICT, healthcare, education, and training. These activities encompass strategic partnerships, joint research, and training initiatives, as well as the exchange of crucial resources such as ICT training materials, publications, and information.

By leveraging their combined expertise and resources, Hive Colab and Dain Leaders aim to drive innovation and facilitate knowledge transfer, thereby laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and success.

Meanwhile, two other Uganda startups managed to secure partnerships;

Ntakye Holdings has partnered with Jubix, another prominent South Korean company focusing on collaborative efforts in solar-integrated technology. This partnership underscores the increasing importance of renewable energy solutions in addressing global challenges and highlights the potential for impactful collaborations between Ugandan and South Korean firms.

Canine Safaris on the other hand also entered into a strategic partnership with Flitto, a South Korean AI company with a unique focus on preserving culture through AI-driven solutions. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, Canine Safaris aims to digitally preserve local dialects and cultural heritage, showcasing the transformative potential of technology in safeguarding and promoting cultural diversity.

These partnerships exemplify the growing recognition of Ugandan startups on the global stage and demonstrate the tangible impact that collaborative efforts between African and Asian tech companies can have on addressing pressing societal challenges and driving positive change.

As Gitex Africa continues to catalyze innovation and collaboration, these partnerships pave the way for a future defined by shared prosperity and inclusive development.

Uganda is participating at the 2024 GITEX Africa in Marrakech, Morocco with 15 startups from the Youth Startup Academy Uganda (YSAU) each positioned to make a significant impact in various sectors, including fintech, healthtech, agritech, and edtech, among others.

During their departure on Sunday, May 26th, 2024 to Marrakech, Morocco, Robert Bob Okello, YSAU Associate Project Coordinator said, “GITEX is an exciting avenue to position the Ugandan ecosystem at an international stage.” He added, “It is a great place for us to showcase what Uganda has to offer in terms of startups and therefore, we are very excited to take 15 startups into this participation of GITEX to represent not only YSAU but Uganda as well.”

The startups participating are Anchor Systems T/A Anchor Machines, AUTOFORE, Beet Fresh Yoghurt, Camelot Agroecology Farm, Canine Safaris, GOCOLORS Paint Uganda, Goldie Coatings, iKnowFarm, Kikazi Agri Products, Lara Fragrance House, Ntakye Holdings, Organic Route, Rwetech Farmers Co-operative Society, Suzie Water Harvesting, and Truism.

These startup founders and their teams have the opportunity to pitch their ventures to potential investors, a network of industry leaders, the media, and the global audience. This event is a critical stepping stone for them to secure funding/investments, and partnerships that can thrust their businesses to new heights —and also connect with fellow entrepreneurs and startup founders

The post Ugandan Startups Forge Partnerships with South Korean Companies at GITEX Africa appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Uganda achieved remarkable success by winning the grand prize in the Network Track. Additionally, students from Kabale University secured first place in the Network Track, while students from Muni University earned second place in the Computing Track. Furthermore, Kabale University students were honored with the Women’s in Tech Award in Network Track.

The Ambassador from Uganda to the People’s Republic of China H.E Oliver Wonekha congratulated all the students for their remarkable achievement. “I congratulate these students for not having just shown interest and engaged, but for having come this far in the competitions,” she said during a media interview at the event. “With what you have learned, make sure you go back home and help in the development of the country because the future is in your hands.”

The Ambassador thanked Huawei for this initiative remarking that the competition means a lot to the country’s transformation. “AI and digital transformation is the way to go,” she said. “It is important and it is timely that Huawei is doing what it is doing.”

On Thursday, May 16th, 2024, the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports of Uganda, Janet Museveni at State House Nakasero flagged off 13 students to participate and represent the country in the 2023/24 global finals of the Huawei ICT Competition in Shenzhen, China

Museveni appreciated the students’ determination and commitment to the competition which saw them secure a spot in the global finals. She encouraged the students to be resilient as they represented their country and wished they returned home victorious.

“I thank the students for their exceptional performance at the Southern African Region competition level and I tasked them to do the same at the global level,” said Museveni as she flagged the students off to China.

The 2023/24 competition circuit attracted more than 170,000 students from over 2,000 universities and colleges across more than 80 countries and regions, making it the largest offline competition since its launch in 2015. More than 160 teams with of over 470 contestants from 49 different countries and regions reached the global final in Shenzhen, China having previously been successful in their respective national and regional competitions.

During the competition’s final closing and awarding ceremony, Peng Honghua, President of Huawei’s ICT Strategy and Business Development Department while addressing the finalists, said, “ICT is the cornerstone of the intelligent world and through the Huawei ICT Competition, we aim to provide students with a global platform to compete and exchange ideas.”

Also read:

• • Rt. Robinah Nabbanja launches Huawei’s DigiTruck Project in Kakumiro
  • 241 beneficiaries of the Huawei Digitruck project in Lango sub-region graduate
  • Vice President, Jessica Alupo lauds Huawei for ICT talent development in Teso sub-region

Huawei also awarded 24 instructors the title of Huawei ICT Academy Global Most Valuable Instructor (MVI) for the first time. The award shows gratitude for the contributions instructors have made to talent development and marks them as role models who show how the brightest minds can develop even brighter minds.

These instructors help drive the sustainable development of the ICT talent ecosystem.

Mr. John Peter Olinga one of the Most Valuable Instructors from Uganda urged more students to take part in the competition. He also applauded Huawei’s support remarking, “I appreciate Huawei for helping Uganda take the first important gigantic steps towards the development of ICTs.”

The Huawei ICT Competition is an annual contest held by Huawei for global university and college students. Through the competition, Huawei aims to provide students with an international platform for healthy competition and the exchange of ideas.

Since its launch in 2015, the competition has helped students enhance their ICT knowledge and practical skills, while also increasing their ability to innovate by using new technologies and platforms.

The ultimate goal is to advance technological development and facilitate digital inclusion around the world. As one of Huawei’s key Seeds for the Future 2.0 projects, the Huawei ICT Competition aims to provide a platform for college students to compete and communicate with each other around the world.

ALSO READ: HUAWEI LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE SME DIGITALIZATION PROGRAM IN UGANDA

The post Ugandan Students Win Huawei ICT Global Competition in China appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Having invested over USD$1 million (approx. UGX3.8 billion, NGN1.4 billion) in youth education in Africa over the last six years, the introduction of a USD$500,000 (approx. UGX1.9 billion, NGN700 million) tech scholarship marks a new chapter in the foundation’s mission.

The scholarship is open to promising tech-savvy candidates across Africa between the ages of 18 to 34. Candidates will be required to complete the ALX admissions process and only 40 will be selected after a review of the individual application videos and essays.

The shortlisted candidates will participate in training programs, and develop in-demand tech skills sought after by leading global employers. As part of their scholarship, they will have the opportunity to qualify for internship opportunities with leading tech companies to bridge the gap between theory and real-life practice.

Speaking on the partnership, the Founder of Patoranking Foundation, Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie (better known by his stage name Patoranking) said the foundation is dedicated to advancing Africa through education and entrepreneurship. “We have done this by providing academic scholarships to exceptional African students at all levels,” he said. “Now we partner with ALX Africa to announce technology scholarships.”

“ALX Africa shares our commitment to empower tomorrow’s leaders via access to advanced digital skills that are critical to future employability and entrepreneurship,” said Okorie. “This step takes us closer to our goal of equipping one million Africans within the next 10 years.”

Okorie adds “At Patoranking Foundation, we are ardent believers in the abundance of exceptional talents and changemakers in Africa, and will continue to challenge the financial inequalities that threaten the emergence of the next generation of African disruptors.”

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Celebrated educator and entrepreneur Fred Swaniker, Founder of ALX Africa, said through this partnership they hope to empower tech disruptors and innovative community leaders with the most in-demand hard and soft skills to solve the problems of the continent and beyond.

“In today’s world of artificial intelligence (AI) and Big Data, young people need to be prepared for uncertainty, they need to be agile and adaptable,” remarked Swaniker. “ALX’s tech programs have been built around our belief in the importance of reimagining and redesigning skills training to meet the challenges and opportunities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.”

The Patoranking Foundation has leveraged partnerships to provide promising young leaders access to leading educational institutions under its Sky Level Initiative. In 2020, the foundation awarded full scholarships to 10 scholars from 8 African countries, including Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, and Liberia, to enable them to study at the African Leadership University (ALU) in Rwanda or Mauritius.

At the primary and secondary education level, 170 young pupils are currently on scholarship in five leading schools in Ebonyi state, Nigeria.

Patoranking continues to leverage his influence to nurture Africa’s entrepreneurial passion, ready to accelerate transformative change to the nations and the continent.

By selecting resilient and innovative community changemakers for the tech scholarships, the Patoranking Foundation is equipping Africa’s young leaders with much-needed digital skills to scale local impact and providing them with useful connections for collaborations.

Through its concerted efforts, the foundation hopes to create a ripple effect of change, empowering the youth to become architects of their futures and catalysts for progress within their communities.

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APPLY NOW (LINK) not later than July 2nd, 2024.

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