Introduction

The third edition of the AYuTe Africa Challenge-Uganda has been launched, promising to create job opportunities for Ugandan youth. Organized by Heifer International, this transformative initiative aims to empower young entrepreneurs to revolutionize the agricultural sector across Africa.

Eligibility and Application Details

Ugandan innovators aged between 18 and 35 years are invited to apply for the competition, which offers UGX 112 million in cash awards and other developmental support. Eligible applicants must be in the start-up stage and actively working with smallholder farmers. The application process remains open until July 25, 2024.

Comprehensive Incubation and Recognition

Top finalists will undergo a thorough incubation period and participate in pitch events, culminating in a Grand Finale Gala in September 2024. During this event, the best five innovators will be recognized for their contributions and potential.

Impact and Growth Since Inception

Since its inception in Uganda in 2021, the AYuTe Africa Challenge has been a catalyst for innovation, economic resilience, and agri-tech advancement. The competition has awarded seven young innovators a total of UGX 120 million, primarily used to scale their inventions. The first two editions attracted 443 applications, introducing nearly 450 innovations to the market. According to William Matovu, Heifer International’s Country Director for Uganda, this success highlights the potential of these innovations to address challenges within the agricultural value chain.

Job Creation and Economic Impact

The young innovators have not only created jobs for themselves but also for others. At least 4,915 smallholder farmers, including 3,165 women, have benefited from training, product sales, and technology demonstrations provided by the AYuTe cohort.

Innovators Making a Difference

Samantha Ainembabazi, the second runner-up in 2023, utilized her prize to procure more inputs for her Freza Nanotech innovation, which extends the shelf life of fruit to 30 days. "I am thrilled to see the return of the AYuTe Africa Challenge Season 3," Ainembabazi said. "This competition has provided me with a valuable opportunity to establish myself in a male-dominated industry. With my prize, I was able to scale my business by purchasing essential raw materials and hiring additional staff."

Further Opportunities and Exposure

Ainembabazi also gained additional exposure by participating in the #AYuTeNextGen regional competition held in Kigali, where she won an additional USD 20,000 and networked with other young innovators and delegates. "I strongly encourage all eligible participants to apply. In this competition, there are no losers as the opportunity exposes you to a lot more," she added.

Government Support and Alignment with National Goals

Mondo Kyateka, Commissioner for Youth and Children in the Ministry of Gender, Labor, and Social Development, praised Heifer International for addressing youth unemployment. According to a 2021 Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) report, youth unemployment stood at 41%. "The young people have the energy and innovative acumen to contribute to Uganda’s development but often lack the means," Kyateka said. "Heifer International’s efforts are pivotal in equipping our youth with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to succeed."

Focus on Agriculture and Digital Innovation

Kyateka also commended the focus on agriculture and digital innovation, aligning with national development goals and the broader agenda of food security and economic growth outlined in the National Development Plan III.

Exciting Opportunities and Special Categories

This year's edition promises more exciting opportunities, including a special category reserved for female innovators to promote women's participation.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Open to Ugandans aged 18-35 years who are innovators and owners of start-ups or have been operating a business for the past three years.
  • Must have the potential to translate innovations into meaningful impact for smallholder farmers across the country.
  • Must demonstrate demand among smallholder farmers for the provided innovation and ensure it is affordable.
  • The innovation must be a truly innovative product or service with potential for growth, a viable market, and not merely duplicating existing solutions.

How to Participate

  • Record a video introducing yourself and demonstrating how the proposed innovation works, the problem it seeks to solve, its potential impact for smallholder farmers, and the required funding.
  • The video should not exceed 2 minutes, must have clear audio, and be in MP4 format.