From Tissue Culture Lab To The Fields

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AYuTe Africa Challenge Narrows Down to Top 10 Agritech Solutions

AYuTe Africa Challenge Tanzania—launched by Sahara Ventures and Heifer International in June 2024—calling for innovative agritech solutions, has narrowed down over its 260 applications to Top 20 and now is at a Top 10 stage. The challenge focuses on improving productivity, income, access to finance, and resilience in the agriculture sector with awards to be provided to three outstanding young agritech innovators through a pitch competition.

The challenge is in the search for top 3 solutions that will be awarded a total of USD 25,000 to progress innovation and use of technology in the agriculture sector. The representatives from recognized top 10 finalists have been part of a transformative bootcamp designed to equip them with essential leadership, project management and financial management skills. This experience empowers the finalists to refine their solutions and enhance their business acumen.

The AYuTe Africa Challenge Tanzania has thus far not only spotlighted some of the most promising agritech innovations but also empowered young innovators with the skills and knowledge to drive positive change in the agriculture sector. As the finalists prepare for the final pitch, their dedication and creativity affirm that the future of agritech in Tanzania is bright. They demonstrate the power of innovation and collaboration to solve challenges of today and pave a way for a prosperous tomorrow.

Startup Spotlight🌟🌟

From Tissue Culture Lab To The Fields

This week in our Startup Spotlight, we bring you an inspiring story from Crescentia Mushobozi, the visionary behind Tanzania Viable Farms, a startup transforming the way rural farmers in Tanzania access quality potato seeds and improve their livelihoods.

In Songolo Village, just 11 km from the main road, Crescentia and her team are conducting demonstration plots to showcase how local solutions can address the challenges farmers face in accessing high-quality seeds. For potato farmers in rural Tanzania, sourcing quality seeds has long been a struggle—delays in deliveries, logistical issues, and the risk of receiving rotten seeds have created significant barriers. However, Tanzania Viable Farms is turning this challenge into an opportunity for change.

In her post Crescentia , she reflected on their latest pilot program:

"This is our second pilot, and the success has been beyond expectations. Out of the entire batch, only one plant didn’t survive, and that was due to an animal attack. From just 0.42 hectares, we harvested an impressive 4 tons of potatoes, despite losing 2 tons to rain in our previous harvest. This reflects not only our resilience but also the growing impact of climate change on farmers like us."

Lets’ Unpack this

Access to high-quality seeds is a pressing issue in Africa, where agriculture remains a backbone of the economy, contributing 23% of the GDP and employing nearly 60% of the population across the continent.

Potato farming is crucial for food security in Tanzania, with the crop being a staple for many rural communities. However, poor access to reliable seeds and the increasing threats posed by climate change often result in low yields, contributing to food insecurity.

Agricultural productivity in Africa has long been hindered by climate challenges and limited access to modern farming inputs. According to the World Bank, Africa has the potential to be the world’s breadbasket, but current productivity levels are far below global averages. Improving access to quality seeds, as Cresencia's team is doing, is one of the most effective ways to boost yields, enhance food security, and uplift communities from poverty.

Community Highlights 🔥🔥

Zanzibar Launches National Blockchain Sandbox to Promote Innovation Across Africa

Zanzibar has taken a major step forward by launching its first National Blockchain Sandbox, a cutting-edge platform designed by LedgerFi IT Solutions and powered by the XinFin XDC network. This sandbox provides startups with a secure, encrypted environment to test their blockchain innovations, incorporating advanced multilayered security protocols.

The initiative is expected to benefit not just Zanzibar, but also startups across Africa looking to trial blockchain products. In a fireside chat with Vinay Krishna, CEO of LedgerFi, Zanzibar eGovernment Authority's Director General, Said Seif Said, emphasized the sandbox's importance. He highlighted that it allows businesses, developers, and government entities to collaborate on projects addressing key challenges like identity verification, financial inclusion, and secure government services.

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