Leading digital and connectivity company -Yas, in partnership with the French Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, has launched the “Startups za Viwango” program, a new initiative aimed at accelerating the growth of Tanzanian startups through mentorship, business training, investor access and strategic networking opportunities.
Speaking during the launch event held in Dar es Salaam, Yas Chief Executive Officer Pierre Canton-Bacara said the program seeks to bridge the gap that continues to limit many young entrepreneurs from scaling their ideas into sustainable businesses.
He said Tanzania is home to a rising generation of innovative and ambitious entrepreneurs, but many startups still struggle due to limited access to skills, networks, funding opportunities and structured business support.
“Across Tanzania, there are thousands of young people creating solutions for their communities and building businesses with great potential. However, many promising ideas fail to grow because entrepreneurs lack access to the right support systems. Through Startups za Viwango, we want to help close that gap,” said Canton-Bacara.
He noted that as a technology and connectivity company, Yas understands the important role digital infrastructure plays in enabling innovation and business growth.
According to him, the company has over the past two years invested heavily in expanding Tanzania’s widest, fastest and high-quality network to support entrepreneurs, connect businesses to markets and enable digital transformation.
“Connectivity alone is not enough. Innovation thrives in ecosystems where businesses are nurtured, ideas are strengthened and entrepreneurs are given opportunities to scale. This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting Tanzania’s innovation economy beyond connectivity,” he added.
The Startups za Viwango program will provide participating startups with access to training sessions, mentorship programs, investor engagement opportunities and international business connections aimed at linking Tanzanian innovators with global markets.
A key component of the initiative is the Yas Masterclass, which will be delivered in collaboration with Yas Business. Through the program, experienced professionals from Yas Business will work directly with startup founders to strengthen their business models, improve strategic planning and prepare them for investment readiness.
Canton-Bacara also commended Yas employees who volunteered to contribute their expertise to mentor and guide entrepreneurs participating in the initiative.
“To the entrepreneurs joining this program, remember that what you are building has the potential to create jobs, unlock industries and position Tanzania as a hub for innovation and excellence. We are committed to walking this journey with you as partners in growth,” he said.
He further thanked the French Tanzania Chamber of Commerce for partnering with Yas in creating stronger links between Tanzanian startups and international markets.
Speaking during the launch, General Manager of the French-Tanzanian Chamber of Commerce, Hannah De Somviele, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Tanzania’s innovation ecosystem and creating opportunities for local startups to connect with international markets.
“We believe Tanzanian entrepreneurs have the creativity, ambition and potential to compete on a global level. Through the Startups za Viwango program, we are creating a platform that will equip startups with the networks, mentorship and exposure needed to grow sustainable businesses and unlock new opportunities beyond Tanzania,” said De Somviele.
The initiative is expected to strengthen Tanzania’s growing startup ecosystem while contributing to economic transformation through innovation, entrepreneurship and digital empowerment.
