The Vodacom Digital Accelerator: Fueling innovation, transforming lives

In today’s fast-evolving digital land­scape, innovation is more than just a buzzword—it’s the driving force behind solutions that are making an impact. As mobile connectivity deep­ens across Africa, digital solutions are unlocking new possibilities, empow­ering entrepreneurs, and driving meaningful social change.

At the forefront of this transforma­tion is the Vodacom Digital Acceler­ator (VDA)—a programme designed to nurture scalable tech innovations that address real-world challenges in Tan­zania.

Launched in 2019, VDA has been a launchpad for over 45 growth-stage startups, with solutions spanning from healthcare, education, agricul­ture, and financial services. VDA is more than just a competition, it offers startups access to expert mentorship, technology support, strategic net­works, and global exposure.

In three seasons, eight standout startups have emerged as winners. Among them, three from the most recent cohort—Go Go App, EvMak Tanzania, and AltitudeX—exemplify how technology, when coupled with the right support, can transform not only businesses but lives.

Go Go App: Revolutionizing roadside assistance

Founded by Lusekelo Nkuwi, the Go Go App provides an on-demand solution for stranded motorists. Whether it’s a flat tire, mechanical issue, or dead bat­tery, help is now just a tap away. With over 100 users already benefiting, the app is gaining popularity among young professionals especially women seek­ing reliable roadside support.

Emerging as the winner in Season 3 was a pivotal milestone for Nkuwi. “The biggest benefit we gained was the expert advice, leadership, and intro­ductions to key people who can help us grow,” he shares. For example through the programme, he travelled to Boston and connected with logistics experts at UPS, gaining invaluable insights into service optimization and scalability.

EvMak Tanzania: A life-saving leap

For Franc Israel, a co-founder of EvMak Tanzania, the VDA journey was an unexpected yet transformative experience. After narrowly making the application deadline, his innova­tion—a postpartum hemorrhage pre­vention device called Mkanda Sala­ma—was selected among the top 20 startups. He went on to win VDA Sea­son 3 and earned a spot in an exclusive training programme in the United States with Mass Challenge.

“VDA expanded my network, introduced me to key mentors, and improved my ability to pitch to inves­tors,” he says. Today, he is supported by five key stakeholders and has been fea­tured on prominent media platforms in—boosting his visibility and reach.

AltitudeX: Transforming agricul­ture with Tech

Also among the winners is Rose Funja, the founder of AltitudeX, a startup using drone technology and artificial intelligence to improve agricultur­al productivity. By offering precision farming tools, AltitudeX helps farm­ers increase yields while reducing resource use.

Winning VDA was a game-chang­er for Funja. “The exposure opened doors to investors, partners, and collaborations across agriculture, tech, and telecommunications,” she explains. With growing visibility, Alti­tudeX is now exploring expansion into new sectors including disaster response, infrastructure monitoring, and environmental conservation.

Through VDA, Vodacom is not only supporting startups—it is fueling a movement of innovators who are redefining Africa’s future.

From roadside safety to maternal health and smart farming, the suc­cess of Go Go App, EvMak Tanzania, and AltitudeX proves that with the right platform, bold ideas can become transformative realities.

Accelerating into the future

As the Vodacom Digital Accelera­tor enters its fourth season this year, the programme is taking bold steps. This year, Vodacom will directly invest in top startups, offering grants to help scale their innovations. The focus has also expanded to include other sectors such as energy and clean cooking, dis­aster relief, and sustainability.

Season 4 is all about igniting bold ideas, accelerating innovation, and connecting visionary entrepreneurs to tools, networks, and support they need to scale. If you’re a tech startup or innovator building a game-changing solution, apply now!