The KwanzaHub Innovation Center, operating under Twigalpha Company, is equipping Tanzania’s Generation Z youth with the skills, mentorship, and resources needed to turn innovative ideas into impactful solutions.
The program brings together students from various universities across the country to nurture creativity, foster practical learning, and provide seed funding for promising projects.
Speaking to journalists in Dar es Salaam yesterday, Jenipher Nderumaki, Technology Department Trainer at KwanzaHub, emphasized that the program targets talented and confident young people capable of innovating products and experimenting with solutions that can positively transform society.
“This initiative is designed to identify youth who can contribute fresh ideas on existing or upcoming products, enhancing their competitiveness in the market,” Nderumaki said.
Founder and creative lead of KwanzaHub, Mihayo Wilmore, explained that the program also prepares graduates for the job market by encouraging them to design practical solutions that can revolutionize business and daily life systems.
“We do not claim to know everything. Our aim is to challenge Gen Z to think critically about existing problems and how to solve them. This ensures they remain valuable in the marketplace while we mentor them on achieving their goals,” Wilmore said.
Operations and Business Manager, Sia Malewas, revealed that 12 participants were selected from different higher education institutions, with the top five performers set to receive funding to advance their projects.
“The program also provides these young thinkers with opportunities to learn beyond the classroom, build professional networks, and gain hands-on experience in areas outside their formal studies,” Malewas explained.
Judges of the program, including Salama Somboka, praised the participants for their intelligence, curiosity, and diligence.
She expressed confidence that the top five winners, who demonstrated strong communication skills and creativity, have a promising path to success ahead.
Highlighting the role of nutrition in cognitive performance, Nicolaus John, owner and head chef of Nico’s Cafe, urged participants to prioritize balanced diets.
“Proper nutrition directly influences creativity and problem-solving abilities. Young innovators should ensure they eat complete meals to enhance focus and mental agility,” John said, adding that he was proud to support the program by providing meals for participants.
The initiative is set to continue as a platform for discovering new talent, fostering innovation, and generating creative solutions that benefit society while increasing the competitiveness of products in the market.