Tanzania's new innovation fund sparks hope for young innovators

The government will also hand over a grant worth Sh6.3 billion to 19 researchers focused on climate change issues, including clean cooking energy.

The development comes when, for years, innovation has been stifled as young Tanzanians face relentless funding challenges, making it difficult to move their ideas from prototypes to marketable products.

While Tanzania's educational institutions produce a wealth of innovative ideas, countless projects end up shelved due to the lack of financial backing.

But now, things may finally be changing, as the upcoming Science, Technology, and Innovation Conference and Exhibition (STICE) will host the launch of the loan fund.

Set to be opened by President Samia Suluhu Hassan from December 2-4 in Dar es Salaam, the conference provides an opportunity for innovators to showcase their work.

One such innovator, Abdul Komba, a former student at the Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT), knows all too well the frustration of stalled dreams.

“I’ve had ideas that could have made a difference, but without funds, they stayed as ideas,” Komba shared.

“This fund gives us a real chance. It can help transform our concepts into something tangible.”

Another innovator, Naomi Msuya, had developed an eco-friendly cooking technology but struggled to attract investors.

“I took my product to exhibitions, but without funding, it was just a demo,” she said.

“Sponsors wanted something market-ready, which I couldn’t afford to produce. This fund could help bridge that gap.”

The fund, which will offer financial support to help young innovators commercialise their products, experts say, could spark a surge in local innovations, creating jobs and fostering economic growth in Tanzania.

According to Minister for Education, Prof Adolf Mkenda, the fund aligns with Tanzania’s commitment to advancing science and technology.

“We want to see real-world impact. This fund is an investment in Tanzania’s future,” he stated.

The fund’s launch coincides with a broader government push to recognise and reward scientists whose work has had a significant impact on both social and economic levels.

This initiative mirrors efforts by countries like Kenya, which has successfully launched innovation hubs that support tech startups through both funding and mentorship.

Nigeria, too, has seen a transformation in its innovation sector, with government-supported programmes now creating thousands of jobs and fostering tech solutions that meet local needs.

For Tanzania, adopting this model brings it in line with other nations investing heavily in innovation to stay competitive.

An economist from the College of Business Education (CBE), Dr Eunice Kavishe, emphasised the importance of private sector involvement to bolster government efforts.

“Many billion-dollar companies started in dorm rooms,” she noted.

“If we support innovators locally, we could see similar success stories here in Tanzania.”

Ms Msuya, for example, is enthusiastic about the potential of local partnerships.

“I’ve seen brilliant minds at DIT and other institutions, but they need that initial push to bring their ideas to life,” she said.

“If the private sector and the government collaborate, we can create something truly impactful.”

Experts agree that the fund’s success will depend on a few key factors, including accessible loan terms and effective mentorship programmes.

The conference will thus be an opportunity for these innovators to network, learn, and gain exposure, which could be instrumental in their journey to commercialisation.

Education expert Dr Amos Kunde explained that beyond the financial support, recognising researchers and innovators is vital for motivation.

“This initiative ends the perception that research is for academic purposes only,” he said.

“Now, every researcher will aim to make an impact on society, which will lead to more meaningful contributions.”

The upcoming STICE event offers all innovators an opportunity to display their work to potential investors and mentors.

Prof Mkenda believes the conference’s theme, Harnessing Science, Technology, and Innovation to Address Climate Change Challenges and Contribute to a Competitive Economy, captures the government’s goal.

“We hope the event will generate valuable input for policies that advance our country’s growth in these areas,” he said.

While this initial Sh2.3 billion fund is a promising start, experts like Dr Kavishe urge more involvement from local businesses.

“We need the private sector to join the government in this effort,” she said.

“These young innovators are Tanzania’s future, and with adequate support, they can help build a prosperous nation.”