Real estate developers in Uganda have been urged to adopt the latest technologies in the international market to boost the country’s construction sector.
The call was made at the opening of the three-day Uganda Buildcon International Expo at the UMA Show grounds in Lugogo, Kampala, on August 8.
The expo, themed “Connect with the construction industry to build a better tomorrow,” aims to provide access to the latest products, machinery, and technologies for Ugandans.
“We aim to make sure Ugandans get access to the latest products, machinery, and technologies. As such, something that takes three months can be made in one month,” said Vijayanka Brighuvansi, Director of Exhibition Organising and Promoting Company of India.
Vijayanka noted that the expo was started in 2022 to help businesses in the housing and construction sector understand the leading products and technologies. “This is the third edition but before the expo was introduced to Uganda, Ugandans in the business had to travel to various countries to understand the latest advancement,” he said.
International players in the sector have been brought on board to showcase various technologies for the local community and stakeholders to learn about the latest developments. “They do not have to put in their time, effort, and energy to go to other countries to learn about them,” Vijayanka added.
The expo has attracted 130 local and international companies, up from 80 in 2022.
Ms Judith Nabakooba, Minister for Lands, Housing and Urban Development (MLHUD), who graced the opening ceremony as the chief guest, noted that the housing sector contributes 12 percent to Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and pledged government support for the sector. “We are progressing well with supporting the real estate sector with a proper legal framework that will enable it to realize its investment goals. This includes offering incentives to the private sector in your quest to recoup your investments,” she said.
Nabakooba highlighted various policies and laws in place to provide a framework for housing development and urbanization management. “We have put in place different policies and laws to provide tenacious security for everyone with the hope in the private sector being the lead in creative housing solutions,” she said.
Mr Namit Gupta, Director of Futurex Group, applauded all the partners for their commitment to supporting the expo in all the countries where it is held.
Letsile Tebogo taking Botswana's first Olympic gold medal by winning the 200-metres sprint in Paris
Botswana President Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi has declared Friday afternoon as a public holiday to celebrate Letsile Tebogo taking the country’s first Olympic gold medal by winning the 200-metres sprint in Paris yesterday.
Tebogo stunned Noah Lyles of the US who was touted to win the men’s 200m race by clocking 19:46 sec to register the first gold for his nation.
Kenny Bednarek, also from the United States, settled for silver after recording 19:62 sec against 19:70 sec of Lyles who took bronze.
A statement issued by Permanent Secretary of the President Emma Peloetletse states that the decision has been made since Tebogo is the first Motswana and the first African to win the gold medal in the history of the Olympics.
“His Excellency, Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, hereby declares to the nation, that he has found it a fitting tribute to Letsile Tebogo, “Botswana’s Sensation”, to grant Batswana and residents an afternoon day-off, on this very day, Friday, August 9, 2024,” it reads in part.
The President, Emma added, underscores, recognizes and acknowledges Letsile’s performance and achievement.
She termed Tebogo’s achievement as outstanding and deserving of the nation hence the need to pause and celebrate him in a most unique, appropriate and responsible manner, that will be etched in the annals of the history of the Republic.
“Accordingly, His Excellency President Masisi, wishes to state that, on behalf of all of the citizenry, he applauds Letsile and gives thanks unceasingly to his late mother,” it further reads.
After finishing the race, Tebogo displayed his running shoe bearing his mother, Seratiwa’s date of birth.
“It’s basically me carrying her through every stride that I take inside the field,” the sprinter, who took a month off training and competition after her death said in an interview.
Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa defended the highly commercialized Euro126.44 million (Shs534.91 billion) loan from CitiBank, for the construction of the 97-kilometer Lusalira- Lumegere- Ssembabule Road, saying globally, there is no longer cheap money in the world and Ugandans should either forget about cheap loans or forfeit borrowing, adding that he is also struggling to get cheap loans to fund his personal businesses.
Tayebwa made the spirited defense for the controversial loan during yesterday’s plenary sitting, despite warning by the Committee on National Economy that the loan had many unfavorable terms, including the demand by Ugandans to pay all taxes associated to the loan, which would thus drive the cost of this road project to Shs627.309 billion.
MPs disregarded the recommendations by the Committee on National Economy to have only Shs38.8Bn approved as insurance fees for the 60% loan facility from China and exempt the insurance charge on the 40% funding to be met by the Government.
John Bosco Ikojo, Chairperson, National Economy Committee while reading the report recommended that, “Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) renegotiates the contract with Chongqing International Construction Corporation (CICO) with a view of reducing the insurance cost by 40%, thus reducing the total cost, inclusive of VAT from Shs64,779,400,239 to Shs38,867,640,143.”
However, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa disagreed with the Committee’s recommendation noting, “Then I am seeing the one for insurance, you approved the loan here and then you are saying you can’t approve the insurance component, and then it means you have to recall the whole loan.”
The Committee faulted UNRA usurping powers of Parliament when the Authority committed the addendum as part of the contract with the Chinese Contractor, and subsequently, a commencement letter was issued for the contractor to kick start major works in July 2024, an action MPs say was done in contravention of section 23 of the PFMA which states that no entity shall enter a multiyear commitment without approval of Parliament.
“The Committee had a discussion with the Minister of Finance and got assurance that the Government will prioritize payments to the contractor after the two year’s grace period. With this assurance, the Committee is confident that the government will finance the 40% of the project cost in time to avoid delays in the project implementation, since debt service is given a priority in the available resource envelope. This means that insurance will only be on the 60% of the project cost which the contractor will borrow,” said Ikojo.
However, UNRA defended the need for the full insurance coverage of the loan, saying that this will allow Sinosure to cover 100% of the Contract price such that in case of any delays or failure to pay by government of Uganda in fulfilling the contractual financial obligations, the Contractor will continue undertaking the works to completion as they wait for payment.
Yesterday night, Parliament also cleared the request by Government to pay an extra cost of Shs64, 779,400,239 in insurance fees for the loan facility acquired by the Chinese contractor for the Masaka-Mutukula Road, a move that will see the cost of the project increase from Shs691.68 billion to now Shs751.002 billion.
The Judicial Training Institute in partnership with National Social Security Fund (NSSF) is conducting a two day non – residential training of 100 selected Judicial Officers who include Chief Magistrates and Magistrate Grade Ones from the central and neighbouring regions at Imperial Golf View Hotel, Entebbe.
The Executive Director Judicial Training Institute, Lady Justice Damalie N Lwanga who officiated at the opening ceremony thanked the participants for honoring her invitation to the symposium on social Security.
“The purpose of this training is to enhance Judicial Officers’ knowledge on Social Security, its objectives, the mandate and services of the NSSF, the law governing social security and the recent amendments to the NSSF act and the laws,” She said.
She emphasized that Social Security was an important subject because it affects everyone in one way or another. She hoped that the engagements they will have would enhance their knowledge and skills on matters of social security.
The ED thanked NSSF for sponsoring and organizing this training and noted that this was not the first time NSSF was sponsoring and was grateful for the continuous partnership. She equally expressed gratitude to the facilitators who agreed to take part in this engagement.
Mr. David Rwamatungi, Senior Manager Mandatory Business while giving a key note address on Social Security, thanked the initiators of the dialogue and appreciated the efforts and collaboration they have enjoyed between the Judicial Training Institute and NSSF.
He said that social security was a huge aspect and goes with people, how we connect, how we live and interact, on Security he highlighted that it involved the measures, mechanisms and tools used to protect humanity. He expressed gratitude to be sharing knowledge with Judicial Officers on how to provide security to the members of the Communities and the great republic.
In addition, he encouraged the participants to pay attention cautiously and understand the working of NSSF.
HW Prossy Katushabe the Registrar Judicial Training Institute in her welcome remarks appreciated the participants for keeping time and encouraged them to use the chance to network and get to know each other, she said that the training was purposed to enhance the Judicial Officer’s knowledge on how to assist National Security fund.
“Your knowledge should be enhanced today on how to assist the NSSF to ensure that people retire comfortably and their benefits are being remitted and in cases where they are not remitted the Judicial Officers who are in attendance should be able to do the needful,” She said.
Participants are being taken through various topics which include ;Overview of Social Security in Uganda by Ms. Agnes Tibayeitu Isharaza , Corporation Secretary, NSSF , Amendments of NSSF Act , Opportunities galore by Mr. Joseph Kalinaki , Senior Manager Regulatory Affairs, NSSF, The Adequacy of the Offences and penalties under the NSSF Act by Mr. Isaac Ogwang, Senior Manager Enforcement and Litigation, NSSF and Compliance, Investigations and whistle blowers by Mr. Horace Rwakabureeta , Senior Compliance Manager, NSSF.
The Training is being moderated by HW Mulalira Faisal Umar, Deputy Registrar Judicial Training Institute.
A total of 2600 students have today graduated at Cavendish University’s 13th graduation ceremony in different courses. The event was held at City Tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia’s Speke Resort Convention Center in Munyonyo.
The Minister of Information,Communications Technology and National Guidance, Baryomunsi urged the graduates to follow the ethics in their profession and fight the itching virus of corruption in Uganda.
Let us work together as a young team to live in a free corrupt country and continent of Africa,” he said.
He also urged the graduates to protect themselves from diseases such as HIV/AIDS because their future is still bright and not to expose their bodies to people in offices in a way of looking for jobs.
Among the graduates, was the National Unity Platform principal, Robert Kyagulanyi alias Bobi Wine who was conferred a Bachelor of Laws Degree from Cavendish University.
In his comments, Bobi Wine said that he attended the first lecture in Law School at the International University of East Africa in August 2016, after much procrastination and seven years later, he has graduated with a Bachelor of Laws Degree from Cavendish University.
“I couldn’t have made it without the assistance and encouragement from my friends and family, and there is no better time to salute them than now. Dear Sylver Kyagulanyi, we discussed this idea of going to law school as far back as 20 years ago while still at the MDD department at Makerere. You continued to encourage me through word and action, even when I dragged my feet for a few years. You led by example and did it. Today I have also done it!” Bobi Wine said.
Bobi also appreciated David Rubongoya, Secretary General, National Unity Platform after meeting him in the first Constitutional Law lecture that he conducted in First Year 2016 at the IUEA and later became good comrades.
“It was your idea to transfer from IUEA which at the time was not yet fully accredited to teach law, to Cavendish University which was already accredited, to avoid future problems about technicalities (as if you foresaw everything the way it has unfolded). I am glad that I listened and enrolled afresh. Thank you for standing with me throughout the course,” Bobi applauded.
He also appreciated his wife Barbie Itungo who always encouraged him not to give up no matter the hard times of struggle in liberating the country.
“I am sure I wouldn’t complete this course without you, sometimes inconveniencing push. So many times I felt like giving up but you would never allow me to leave the mission incomplete. Only you know how many times I came close to giving up. Thank you for always keeping me encouraged and nourished. Now I know that with your encouragement, nothing is too hard to achieve. Thank you, love.” Bobi appreciated the wife.
He thanked the lecturers that made it hard and eventually impossible for him to graduate last year, noting that they helped him get everything in place for a legit qualification. Adding, “I was initially mad at you but I was wrong, you were right!”
“To those who always mocked my academic qualifications, you pushed me to pursue this course. Thank you and I hope you will now get something better to talk about. This did not go without challenges. I was supposed to graduate last year, having completed all other requirements for the award of this degree. However, because I had missed a few lectures in one of the course units, I wasn’t allowed to graduate but instead subjected to another semester of re-attendance for that course unit. I took the new challenge with grace and ended up waiting for another full year to graduate. Many of my classmates graduated last year and the years before,” he said.
Recently when news came out that Bobi Wine was set to graduate, the usual detractors got busy and made every effort to stop him. Some people, ostensibly working for the regime and other detractors, went as far as petitioning the National Council for Higher Education. NCHE officials went to the University and demanded for every document regarding his studies, including the application form, admission forms, all class attendance records, written exams, coursework of all the years and his tuition payment records! It is after a very detailed and intense investigation that he was cleared to graduate today.
“I don’t know if any other Ugandan student has been subjected to this before. I am sure the regime and those who are always eager to please it are very disappointed to see me in this gown today,” He said.
Bobi also appreciates the Ghetto People who always challenge him to challenge them. Over the past two decades, they have kept him on tenterhooks to be the best of him and give his best energy to everything he does, because he knows that by doing things right he is inspiring millions of others.
“Yes let today inspire you to know that you’re never too late to pursue your dreams and achieve them. Such days usually come with mixed emotions for me. I know Maama would be so proud of me today. But I am comfortable in knowing that she is looking on from above with so much pride,” Bobi said.
Lewis Lubongoya said that he taught him the first constitution law class. Contrary to the perception some people had of him at the time, I found him to be very intelligent, respectful and above all, deeply concerned about the future of our country.
“Over the next months, we had many conversations inside and outside the classroom and agreed that while it was important for me to teach constitutional law in a country that has zero regard for constitution, and while it was important for him to sing about the evils within our society, it was even more important for us to get into the trenches and try to make a contribution on different fronts. We discussed the risks and challenges ahead, but remained convinced that it was worth it,” Rubongoya said.
He added, “Seeing you graduate with a Bachelor of Laws Degree today fills me with immense pride. Your determination to continue studying amidst such a busy schedule and many other challenges is profound. It is that determination that has seen you achieve so many other things. May it see you achieve even the ultimate mission of seeing a free and democratic Uganda.”
The Uganda Energy Credit Capitalisation Company (UECCC) held a contract signing ceremony today for the civil and hydromechanical works of the ORIO mini hydropower project. Eng. Irene Pauline Bateebe, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, presided over the event and emphasized the project’s importance for enhancing energy access in Uganda.
“The Government of Uganda recognizes energy as a key driver of development and has established a conducive policy framework to ensure adequate and reliable energy to propel our economy,” Bateebe said. She highlighted the ambitious goal of increasing electricity access from 19 percent in 2022 to 80 percent by 2040.
The ORIO project aims to construct nine mini-hydropower plants with a total capacity of 6.7 megawatts and develop a local distribution network spanning 288 kilometers. This initiative is expected to connect about 71,081 households and 2,300 small and medium enterprises across districts such as Kasese, Bushenyi, and Hoima. Bateebe noted that these small-scale schemes will provide a stable and reliable power source for rural electrification, addressing the challenges of long-distance power transmission.
Roy Nyamutale Baguma, Managing Director of UECCC, expressed optimism about the project’s future. “UECCC has selected two contractors to implement the project. HNAC Technology Co. Ltd from China will handle the civil and hydromechanical works, while Ossberger GmbH from Germany will design, manufacture, supply, and install the electro-mechanical components,” he said.
HNAC Technology Co. Ltd is a publicly listed company in China with 30 years of experience in water conservancy, electric power, and environmental protection solutions. Baguma added, “We look forward to a successful partnership with HNAC Technology Co. Ltd as we implement phase one of the project.” Chu Ao Qi, a representative from HNAC, expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to delivering quality work. “HNAC is a responsible contractor that delivers quality on its projects. We will try our best to ensure we deliver good works,” Qi stated.
The project is funded through a €13.1 million grant arrangement between the Governments of the Netherlands and Uganda. Joost Van Ettro, the deputy ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Uganda, remarked, “Energy is a key enabler for so many things. Without energy, communities cannot reach their full potential. We are looking forward to the next phase: the groundbreaking and the actual realization of all nine mini-hub projects.” He commended the project teams for their perseverance and emphasized the Netherlands’ alignment with Uganda’s National Development Plan III, which aims to increase average household incomes and improve the quality of life for Ugandans over the next 30 years.
The ORIO mini hydropower project promises significant socio-economic benefits by providing reliable energy access, enhancing household incomes, and supporting regional transformation. It aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7, which seeks to ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy services by 2030.
With the contract signed, contractors are set to begin mobilization, with the first phase of the project expected to be completed within 24 months. Bateebe urged the contractors to focus on timely delivery, stating, “I call upon the contractors to deliver the first phase within the contracted period, enabling the Government of Uganda’s continued efforts toward achieving targeted electricity access for all by 2030.” She also emphasized the importance of considering community needs during project implementation.
The successful rollout of the ORIO mini hydropower project marks a critical step toward achieving Uganda’s energy goals and improving the living standards of its citizens.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jeje Odong, has promised to investigate cases in which over 100 Ugandan students were hoodwinked into paying for scholarships in Iran.
The government’s committee follows claims raised by Kyadondo East MP Muwanga Nkunyingi who said that Ugandans are stranded in Iran after finding out that the said courses were nonexistent prompting some of the students to resort to prostitution.
Igara West MP Gaffa Mbwatekamwa claimed that the NRM Chairperson of Kyambogo published an advertisement requesting all Ugandans who want to go to Iran for scholarships in various courses, and people responded by paying each $800 to go to Iran, only to realize upon arrival in Iran that they had entered the Arab nation to study ghost courses.
Kimaanya Kabonero Division MP Abed Bwanika confirmed the allegations of Ugandans being hoodwinked, saying one of his relatives, Peter Ssentongo, a resident of Kira Municipality, was a victim of the said scheme.
“One of my relatives is a victim of that scheme; he was taken to Iran to study veterinary medicine. He reached Iran and got stranded; we have just evacuated him; he didn’t even have a passport back. This is a serious matter that needs to be investigated,” said Bwanika.
Muwada asked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to normalize diplomatic relations with other countries so that nationals are not mistreated.
Muwada asked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to expedite the process of naming a substantive Ambassador to Iran, arguing that following the death of Muhammad Kisambira in August 2023, the position has remained vacant, thus exposing Ugandans living in Iran to living without any diplomatic representation in case they encounter any challenge.
“Our diplomatic representation with Iran is also still lacking; a while ago, the substantive ambassador passed away, and to date, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs hasn’t sent in a replacement, meaning that the Ugandans who are there and whatever challenge they are facing, no one is there to address it diplomatically,” he said.
Minister Odong admitted that Kisambira’s position remains vacant, but he informed the house that Iran isn’t the only station without an ambassador.
The Ministry of Trade has sacked its Commissioner for Cooperatives Robert Barigye and replaced him with former strong FDC supporter Odo Tayebwa.
Robert Barigye has been accused of forming a parallel committee for verification which caused confusion in the ministry.
He has been replaced by former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) staunch supporter, Odo Tayebwa who last week crossed and joined the ruling party National Resistance Movement (NRM).
In 2023, Barigye was alleged for conniving with some of the leaders of cooperatives and law firms to swindle the money meant for the compensation of the cooperatives, which forced the President to ask ISO and SHACU to intervene and was arrested over this matter.
The ministry is struggling with corruption scandals of Shs164 billion meant for some selected cooperatives was shared by mainly politicians and a few connected individuals which led to the arrest of PS Geraldine Ssali, three Members of Parliament, Michael Mawanda, Ignatius Mudimi Wamakuyu of Elgon County and Busiki MP Paul Akamba
Bank of Uganda’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has reduced the Central Bank Rate (CBR) for August 2024 to 10.0% from 10.25% for July.
CBR is the rate of interest which is charged by a central bank while lending loans to a commercial bank. When the central bank raises interest rates, it increases the cost of borrowing, making both credit and investment more expensive.
Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego, the Deputy Governor of Bank of Uganda, said this is on account on several factors such as the “fading” impacts of global shocks like the war in Ukraine and COVID-19, the tightening of monetary policy early this year and the exchange rate that has stabilised since March 2024.
“The relative stability of the shilling against the US dollar has benefited from the recent CBR increases and inflows from coffee exports owing to favourable international coffee prices,” he said on Wednesday.
Dr Ego added that domestic inflation has continued to decline over the past year, a sign of economic stability.
“In the twelve months to July 2024, domestic inflation continued to moderate, with annual headline and core inflation averaging 3.2% and 3.0%, respectively, below the medium-term policy target of 5%,” he said.
“Looking forward, the Bank of Uganda (BOU) expects inflation to be below the 5% target in FY 2024/25, broadly reflecting stable demand conditions, lower imported inflation and exchange rate stability. The inflation projection has been revised slightly downwards relative to the June 2024 forecast round, largely due to a lesser depreciated shilling exchange rate,” he added.
“Therefore, it was appropriate to reduce slightly the degree of monetary policy restrictiveness. As a result, the MPC reduced the CBR by 25 basis points to 10.0%. The bands on the CBR remain at +/-2 percentage points, and the margins on the CBR for the rediscount and bank rates at 3 and 4 percentage points, respectively. As a result, the rediscount and bank rates will reduce to 13.0% and 14.0%, respectively,” he added.
However, the Deputy Governor warned of persistent uncertainties around the inflation projection, including the effects of a possible escalation of the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, potential energy price hikes, unfavourable weather patterns affecting food production, and a stronger-than-expected path for domestic demand.
“In addition, the signs of lingering inflation in other parts of the world and heightened volatility in both capital flows and the exchange rate could result in stronger depreciation of the shilling exchange rate and, therefore, higher inflation than currently assumed. Conversely, the continued unwinding of the past shocks to energy and other imported goods prices may moderate inflation. The risks around the projection for inflation are judged to be balanced.
Kigali, Rwanda, The GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Competition proudly presents the Top 12 finalists for 2024. These dynamic young entrepreneurs have emerged as leaders in Africa’s agrifood sector, showcasing extraordinary innovation and a visionary approach to sustainable agriculture. From a pool of nearly 2000 applicants from across the continent, 12 trailblazers have risen to the top after rigorous evaluations including a semi-final round of online interviews.
The Top 12 finalists will be awarded a trip to Kigali, Rwanda in early September to pitch their ventures live on stage at the GoGettaz Africa Finals during the annual Africa Food Systems Forum (AFS Forum). During the week-long event, they will also gain invaluable exposure and network opportunities with global industry leaders, potential investors, and influential policymakers in the agriculture and food sector.
Along with a chance to win one of two $50,000 Grand Prizes and eligibility to be considered for GoGettaz Impact Awards totalling an additional $60,000, the AFS Forum offers young entrepreneurs (ages 18-35) a unique opportunity for building strategic partnerships to take their agribusinesses to new heights.
Amongst the entrepreneurial ventures competing to win this year’s GoGettaz Africa prizes were many products and services demonstrating new approaches to improving rural livelihoods, promoting responsible water usage, minimizing post-harvest loss, and tackling agricultural waste in sustainable and creative ways. The ventures were recognized not only for their profitability, or high potential for profit, but also for their positive impact on communities and the environment.
By supporting Africa’s young leaders, GoGettaz is investing in the next generation of agrifood innovators with a vision to play a crucial role in shaping a more prosperous, productive, and planet-friendly future for African agriculture.
“The passion and innovations demonstrated by these young entrepreneurs are truly inspiring,” remarked Svein Tore Holsether, President and CEO of Yara International and GoGettaz co-founder. “Africa needs impact-leaders in the food system. Of the twenty countries most at risk to the effects of climate change, seventeen are in Africa. Many of our young GoGettaz agripreneurs have told us that they are heavily affected by extreme and unpredictable weather, especially in areas where water-scarcity is already an issue. It is heartening to see that young food systems leaders, like our twelve GoGettaz finalists, are operating climate resilient and innovative ventures. We are very excited to see them in action at the GoGettaz finals.” Strive Masiyiwa, Founder and Chairman of Econet Group and GoGettaz co-founder, emphasized.
Masiyiwa added, “This is what Africa’s future looks like, and it is a bright future. I have said it before, and we’ll keep saying it until everyone hears: Africa is a continent of talented entrepreneurs. The innovative products, business models, and ground-breaking technologies being developed today by our GoGettaz entrepreneurs are amazing. Not only are our young business leaders working to launch and grow profitable ventures that create good jobs and grow prosperity across Africa’s agrifood sector; many are also tackling climate and development quandaries that have been perplexing global experts for years. To us GoGettaz means having a solution-seeking, action-focused entrepreneurial mindset! We salute them all.”
Meet the Top 12 Finalists
Women Agripreneurs
1. Salimata Toh – AGRIBANANA, Côte d’Ivoire
· AGRIBANANA transforms banana plant waste into eco-friendly products like natural fibres, paper pulp, and biodegradable packaging. Their patented process adds value to agricultural waste, promoting sustainable consumption and reducing environmental impact.
2. Deborah Nzarubara – Grecom, DR Congo
· Grecom specializes in the production, sale, and transformation of beekeeping products using their NYUKI TECH platform. This platform enables apiculturists to track and manage their hives remotely, ensuring optimal production and bee health, while connecting small producers to market information and customers.
3. Fatima El Khou – Jafife, Morocco
Jafife uses digitalized solar dryers to transform crops and seafood into long-lasting dried food products and natural dyes, supporting sustainable supply chains in the agri-food industry. Their innovative approach maintains the nutritional value and of dried products while utilizing renewable energy.
4. Tisya Mukuna – La BOITE, DR Congo
La BOITE produces La Kinoise coffee, cultivated and transformed entirely in Kinshasa, managing the entire value chain from plantation to processing. By reviving abandoned coffee plantations and supporting local cooperatives, they improve agricultural practices and create economic opportunities through their ‘One Cart, One Job’ program.
Sakafo Madagascar processes fruits and vegetables grown by small-scale farmers into traceable, nutritious food products. Their holistic ecosystem supports sustainable farming practices, reduces post-harvest loss, and promotes a circular economy with composting and clean energy initiatives.
SHADDAÏ Aquaculture produces fish feed without fish meal, using alternative protein sources and lysis technology for digestibility. This innovation protects the environment by reducing overfishing and provides high-quality feed to support sustainable aquaculture.
Men Agripreneurs
1. Mogale Maleka – Agang Bokamoso Farms (AB Farms), South Africa
AB Farms’ patented hydroponic system operates efficiently during water and power shortages, using 90% less water and 10 times less land than traditional farming.
Their vertical farming system enables farmers to produce nutritious crops, that is virtually pesticide free, in urban areas, on degraded land, or in areas with poor soil conditions.
2. Amir Redwan Ahmed – ChipChip, Ethiopia
ChipChip uses an innovative “group buying” model to provide affordable, quality food to urban families while empowering farmers. Their platform aggregates demand, reducing logistics costs and offering consumers wholesale prices, which are at least 20% lower than market rates.
3. Habib Mestiri – Hayat Technology, Tunisia
Hayat Technology’s GrowIt system uses AI-driven sensors and real-time data analysis to optimize water usage and enhance crop management. This advanced irrigation technology is accessible and affordable for farmers, improving productivity and sustainability.
4. Iddi Mohammed Faried – Kodu Technology, Ghana
Kodu Technology uses banana and plantain fibres to create eco-friendly sanitary pads, addressing health and hygiene challenges. Their approach turns agricultural waste into valuable products, supporting local agriculture and providing affordable, biodegradable menstrual products to underserved communities.
5. Mostafa Hassanen – Plug’n’Grow, Egypt
Plug’n’Grow specializes in hydroponic and aquaculture solutions, enabling growers to produce premium quality crops with minimal resources. Their systems reduce capital and operational costs by 70% compared to traditional methods, optimizing resource efficiency and crop yields.
6. Charles Oyamo – Rethread Africa, Kenya
Rethread Africa converts agricultural waste from smallholder farmers into sustainable bio plastics, providing eco-friendly materials for various industries. This technology reduces the reliance on synthetic materials and increases farmers’ income without additional labour, promoting sustainable agriculture.
To prepare these top agripreneurs for their live, on-stage business pitches, they will receive personalised pitch training in the weeks leading up to the GoGettaz Finals.
Amath Pathe Sene, Managing Director of the Africa Food Systems Forum, added, “The GoGettaz Finals at the AFS Forum draws huge crowds every year. People want to see what Africa’s most exciting young agrifood leaders are bringing to the table, and they never disappoint. The contestants who are in the 2024 GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Finals are exceptional. They are addressing the multifaceted challenges facing our agrifood sector. I have no doubt that the delegates attending this year’s summit will be very impressed.”
