Vodacom Tanzania has announced the successful conclusion of the third season of its Digital Accelerator Program with a vibrant Demo Day event. The occasion celebrated the remarkable achievements of seven finalists who completed the intensive three-month acceleration program in partnership with MassChallenge and Huawei.
This year’s event, held in collaboration with various ventures and accelerators, highlighted the growth, scope, and diversity of Tanzanian startups, showcasing a promising future for the country’s tech ecosystem.
The accelerator program began with 20 startups, from which seven finalists emerged: MITz Kits, Afya ya Mnyama, Mkanda Salama, Go Go App, SAB Biomanufacturers, Altitude X, and Makonda Renewable Tech. These finalists embarked on an incredible journey, participating in workshops, mentorship sessions, and a learning tour in Shenzhen, China, where they experienced cutting-edge technology and 5G networks, sparking new ideas and possibilities for Tanzania.
Philip Besiimire, Managing Director of Vodacom Tanzania, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “Today, we celebrate innovation, hard work, and the bright future of Tanzanian startups. These seven startups have shown that solutions to local challenges lie within our youth, and we are proud to have been a part of their growth. I commend all the finalists and wish them well. The market is ready for your solutions; let’s go make a difference.”
Besiimire highlighted Vodacom Tanzania’s commitment to supporting startups by providing access to local and international industry experts, training, mentorship, partner networks, and M-PESA services. He stressed the importance of creating inclusive and accessible solutions for everyone, including people with disabilities, ensuring that innovations benefit all members of society while addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Coupled with international experience from China and pitch rehearsals with the US-based MassChallenge, the seven startups faced judges and the audience in an exciting pitching session. Following this rigorous process, three startups emerged as winners: Rose Funja, founder of Altitude X; Frank Mussa, co-founder of Afya Lead; and Lusekelo Nkuwi from GO GO App.
Frank Mussa, one of the winners and co-founder of Afya Lead, expressed his gratitude, saying, “From the beginning of our innovation journey, we faced many challenges, but with determination and the support of VDA mentorship, we built a strong business foundation. I am thrilled to win this award and look forward to implementing what I’ve learned to bring positive change to my community.”
The three winners will have the opportunity to travel to the US in September, where they will meet with mentors and potential investors to advance their startups, gaining valuable insights and support for their ventures.
Eric Rodriguez from MassChallenge remarked, “It has been an honor to partner with Vodacom Tanzania for the Digital Accelerator Program. The dedication and talent of these startups are truly inspiring, and it was a great honor connecting them with both local and international mentors to help guide their journeys. We are excited to see how these entrepreneurs will continue to innovate and drive positive change in their communities.”
Besiimire concluded by highlighting the potential of the Tanzanian innovation ecosystem: “The Tanzanian innovation ecosystem is ripe for growth. This year alone, we received over 200 applications and managed to work with only 20 startups during the design sprint phase and later seven finalists, so you can see the hunger out there. I invite other corporates, investors, and ventures to explore the Tanzanian market. There are brilliant minds here that just need a boost. Remember, this is just the beginning. Keep innovating, pushing boundaries, and creating solutions that will shape the future of Tanzania.”
