Hanga Weekly Roundup EP 37

Industry Insights

Timbuktoo Health Tech Accelerator Launches to Drive Innovation

This Tuesday, a significant step was taken towards advancing healthcare innovation in Africa with the launch of the Timbuktoo Health Tech accelerator program. The event featured Hon. Paula Musoni, Minister of Health, and MoS Yvan Butera, who were joined by key figures from the United Nations and the private sector, including Ozznia, UN Resident Representative, Fatmata Sesay, UNDP Resident Representative, and Lasina Koné, CEO of Real Smart Africa. This initiative aims to connect talent with opportunities across the continent, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for health technology innovation.

Minister Musoni emphasized the pivotal role that the Timbuktoo HealthTech Hub will play in facilitating partnerships among health innovators, government entities, and other stakeholders. By fostering collaboration, the hub aims to scale innovative solutions that address the pressing health challenges faced by African nations. The initiative is designed to create a supportive environment for health tech startups, enabling them to thrive and contribute to improved health outcomes across the continent.

The launch of the Timbuktoo Health Tech accelerator is not just about creating opportunities; it is about addressing systemic issues within the African healthcare landscape. The continent faces numerous challenges, including inadequate healthcare infrastructure, limited access to services, and a shortage of medical personnel. Health tech startups have emerged as key players in developing innovative solutions to these challenges, and the Timbuktoo initiative seeks to harness this potential.

The launch of the Timbuktoo Health Tech accelerator marked a promising development in the African health tech landscape. By connecting talent with opportunities and fostering partnerships, this initiative has the potential to transform healthcare delivery across the continent, ultimately improving health outcomes for millions.

Smart City Hub Hosts Founders Friday

The Smart City Hub in Rwanda is set to host an exciting event today, August 30, 2024, at Norrsken East Africa, starting at 5 PM. This session, part of the Founders Friday initiative, aims to delve into innovations in urban planning, a critical topic as cities globally face unprecedented growth and challenges. The event is powered by DigiCenter Rwanda and GIZ Rwanda, featuring notable pitches from several key innovators in the urban planning space. Teddy Segore, CTO of Charis UAS, will present his insights on leveraging technology in urban environments, while Charles Nshimiyimana, founder of Splendid & More, will share his vision for enhancing urban living through innovative solutions.

Additionally, Winnie Mutabazi, head of Customer Service & Marketing at Centrika, will discuss customer-centric approaches to urban development. Participants are encouraged to register for the event to secure their slots, emphasizing the growing interest in collaborative discussions around urban innovation.

The Smart City Hub was launched during the Africa Smart Cities Investment Summit (ASCIS), held from September 6 to 8, 2023, at the Kigali Convention Center. This initiative aims to facilitate and drive sustainable digital solutions that enhance the quality of life for citizens in Rwanda through technology and innovation. The Mayor of Kigali, Pudence Rubingisa, highlighted the importance of aligning urban investments with effective solutions to address the challenges posed by a rapidly growing urban population. Minister of Innovation and ICT, Paula Musoni, emphasized that the hub is not just a physical space but a vibrant ecosystem for ideas, collaboration, and creativity.

The Smart City Hub focuses on several key areas, including renewable energy and infrastructure, which promotes sustainable energy supply and affordable housing through public-private partnerships. It also addresses water and waste management by implementing strategies for sustainable water resource management and pollution reduction. Furthermore, the hub advocates for mobility and hospitality, encouraging sustainable urbanization practices, while promoting digital transformation and innovation to improve urban living. Lastly, it aims to enhance resilience and climate adaptation, preparing cities to adapt to climate change impacts.

As urbanization continues to accelerate, events like Founders Friday at the Smart City Hub play a crucial role in fostering dialogue and innovation. By bringing together thought leaders and innovators, the hub aims to create a collaborative environment that addresses the pressing challenges of urban planning and development in Rwanda and beyond. Join the conversation today and be part of the movement towards smarter, more sustainable cities.

Startup Spotlight

Meet Jo Care: Transforming Health Education in Rwanda with Inclusive Platforms.

Jo Care is a Rwandan startup dedicated to revolutionizing health education, particularly for adolescents and young people with disabilities. By creating accessible and inclusive platforms, Jo Care is making vital health information readily available to those who need it most.

Services Offered:

• Sexual and Reproductive Health Education: Jo Care provides essential sexual and reproductive health education to both youth and parents. This initiative is especially critical in regions where such discussions are uncommon, helping to reduce unplanned pregnancies and fostering open conversations about reproductive health.
• Mental Health Awareness Programs: Jo Care offers programs focused on raising awareness about mental health challenges faced by young people. These programs aim to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help, promoting a culture of openness and support within the community.
• Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Education: Jo Care educates the community on the significant public health burden posed by NCDs, which are the leading cause of death in many populations. The initiative emphasizes prevention and management strategies, contributing to a healthier society.
• Health Tips and First Aid Training: Jo Care equips individuals with basic first aid skills, enabling them to respond effectively in emergencies such as traffic accidents or drowning incidents. This knowledge can be life-saving, providing crucial assistance before professional medical help is available.

Jo Care is committed to creating a healthier future for Rwanda by empowering its youth with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed health decisions. Through its innovative platforms and community-focused initiatives, Jo Care is making a significant impact on Rwanda's health education landscape.

Connect with Jo Care to learn more about their mission and impact on Rwanda’s health education: https://jocare.rw/?v=5c6dc3d43650.

Expert Opinion

"Life is a game and the first thing that you can do is increase the map of your area. Get out of your comfort zone and embrace challenges; that’s where true growth happens." - Akash Ladha, Founder of ALSM Consulting Group, What I’m building Podcast.

Hanga Quiz

Which organization is responsible for implementing the Hanga Hubs project in Rwanda?

A. Rwanda Development Board (RDB)

B. Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA)

C. Ministry of Youth and Arts

D. Rwanda Chamber of Commerce