This Week in Tanzanian Tech: 10 Important Headlines, 2 Expert Opinions

Welcome to this week's edition of the Atoms & Bits newsletter, where we bring you the latest updates on Tanzanian technology. Let's dive into the key headlines from July 2nd to July 8th, 2023.

Headlines

1. ProjeKt Inspire to Create Mini STEM Parks in Tanzanian Libraries

Libraries are traditionally seen as places to borrow books and do research. However, the non-profit ProjeKt Inspire intends to establish study spaces as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning hubs.

ProjeKt has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Tanzania Library Services Board (TLSB) to create more engaging educational environments across the country.

"Together, we will transform libraries by embedding STEM programming, improving access to innovative pedagogical approaches, and fostering 21st-century skills for learners," Dr. Lwidiko Mhamilawa, founder of ProjeKT Inspire, declared on Thursday. The mini parks will provide hands-on activities to engage children and foster their curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity.

2. ICT Ministry Connects Digital Economy Stakeholders

Tanzania's Ministry of Information, Communication and Information Technology hosted TEHAMA Day from July 7-8 in the Saba Saba Expo Village.

The business forum brought together individuals from across Tanzania's digital economy, including minister Nape Nnauye, to exchange ideas and explore investment prospects.

TEHAMA Day included talks on IT, broadcasting, and postal services, as well as possibilities for professional networking and collaboration.

3. Edtech, Energy Management, and Virtual Tours Steal the DITF 2023

At the 47th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF), several startups made an impact.

Edtech giant Silabu showcased its online and offline tutoring marketplace, providing parents with opportunities to stay informed. LUKU-CHAP, founded by UDSM engineering students, exhibited its energy management system. OnaStories offered a 360 virtual tour of the Julius Nyerere Hydro Electric Power Plant (JNHEPP).

On the other hand, Imperial Marketing & Communication (ICM) joined TTCL (the Tanzania Telecommunications Corporation) to showcase a range of breakthrough digital solutions.

Visitors were treated to immersive experiences, including a live feed from Mount Kilimanjaro, an interactive virtual assistant, and an educational experience about TTCL's fiber network.

At the DITF, Tanzanian tech ventures showcased their innovative products and services to attendees, including former President Hon. Jakaya Kikwete.

4. Smart Codes Makes a Mark in the Digital Transformation Market

On Friday, Vodacom Tanzania recognized Smart Codes in its Annual Supplier Awards.

Vodacom has a long history of supporting local suppliers. In 2021, the mobile operator and financial services provider spent Sh425.6 billion in partnerships with over 400 Tanzanian enterprises.

Smart Codes, led by seasoned marketer Beatrice Nyamari, has made significant contributions to digitalization at Vodacom and Tanzania. Miss Nyamari recently discussed major trends in "the future of marketing" with Mpoki Thomson, managing editor of The Citizen.

5. New Report Highlights Opportunities for Innovation in Tanzania's Agric Sector

RiceAfrika TZ, an award-winning agritech startup, has published its first State of Agriculture Report, which covers sector developments from January to March 2023. The report provides valuable insights for stakeholders in aquaculture, climate-smart agriculture, food security, and other areas.

RiceAfrika Technologies has offices in Dar es Salaam and operates across Tanzania. They optimize the productivity of Tanzania's smallholder farmers to help build an Africa that can feed itself.

6. New Partnership Aims to Strengthen Research Capabilities in Tanzania

MUHAS, Johns Hopkins University, and the Tanzania Red Cross Society have launched a new research training collaboration called EMPOWER TZ.

The partnership has announced scholarship and mentorship opportunities for Tanzanian researchers. It will also support the development of research projects that address priority health challenges in Tanzania.

EMPOWER TZ received funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

7. Experts from India and Tanzania Meet to Discuss Investment Opportunities

The Tanzania Investment Center (TIC) hosted a multi-sectoral India-Tanzania Business Conclave from July 5-8. It was an opportunity for businesses from both countries to explore potential partnerships and investments. The event also provided a forum for the two governments to discuss ways to strengthen economic cooperation.

TIC facilitated discussions in agriculture, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, mining, education, trade and investment, green energy, construction, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and information technology.

8. Tanzania Government Seeks to Attract Startup Funding with Changes to Finance Bill

Amne Suedi, an international lawyer and investments adviser, provided her analysis of the Tanzania Finance Bill 2023.

The bill proposes changes in various areas of commercial activities, including amendments to the "Change in Control" provision to attract private equity and venture capital investments. Additionally, the bill suggests a reduction in the skills development levy (SDL) rate to reduce operational costs for employers.

9. ATCL's Cargo Plans to Open Up New Markets for Tanzanian Businesses

Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL) will launch its first cargo flight to Mumbai on July 28. The public airline also plans to fly cargo to Kenya, DRC, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Kinshasa, and Lagos.

ATCL is in the final stages of pilot training and registration before take off. Air Tanzania also plans to introduce cargo flights to Dubai and China, as well as acquire three more planes to increase its fleet from 12.

The Boeing 767 freighter owned by ATCL has a cargo capacity of 52.7 tonnes and cost Sh89.8 billion.

10. New App Offers Digital Mental Healthcare in Tanzania

The Tanzania Health and Medical Education Foundation (TAHMEF) has launched AHADI, a mobile mental health solution. The app provides access to a helpline for psychosocial support (PSS), virtual therapy sessions, a wellness journal, and a supportive community. It will empower individuals to prioritize their mental health and seek support when needed.

TAHMEF intends to enhance youth cognitive skills, reduce risk of mental illnesses, and eradicate the stigma surrounding mental health.

Quotes of the Week

For clarity, some quotations have been paraphrased.

Melissa Menke, Founder and CEO of Access Afya, has this to say about the regional startup ecosystem:

"I have found the East Africa entrepreneurial scene incredibly collaborative. Yet the funding ecosystem is obsessed with awards and rankings."

She also emphasized, "Let us stop ranking entrepreneurs like they are beauty pageant contestants."

In a discussion on fintech challenges,?Firas Ahmad, Group CEO of AzamPay, commented:

"Payment failures are not only due to poor infrastructure; they also occur because payment service providers do not prioritize online payment transactions."

Firas noted most system are poorly designed and lack redundant or fail-safe protocols to address intermittent connectivity and other issues.

He explained, "These problems can be solved technically but no one cares to do it. We are trying to build the alternative with AzamPesa."

Conclusion

Thank you for reading the 22nd edition of the Atoms & Bits newsletter. We hope you enjoyed the latest updates on Tanzania's innovation ecosystem.

Next Saturday, we'll be back with more news, analysis, and insights for decision-makers.