Twenty young technology innovators have been challenged to develop digital solutions that could help farmers access financial services and improve productivity as Tanzania seeks to harness technology to address longstanding challenges in agriculture.
The innovators, specialising in data science, artificial intelligence (AI) and computer science, are participating in the AgriFin Hackathon 2026, organised jointly by NMB Bank and the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST).
The five-day event, running from September 21 to 25 at the NM-AIST ICT Centre in Arusha, is focused on turning technological skills into practical solutions for challenges facing farmers.
NMB headquarters Human Resources Manager Joanitha Rwegasira Mrengo said the initiative was intended to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical applications.
She said the programme would give young innovators an opportunity to apply their skills to real challenges in the agricultural sector, particularly those affecting access to financial services and productivity.
The initiative brings together students and young technology experts with professionals from the banking and academic sectors, creating an opportunity for the proposed solutions to be tested and refined.
Acting NM-AIST Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academics, Research and Innovation, Prof Mwemezi Rwiza, said participants would receive training and mentorship in areas including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and agribusiness.
NMB experts will also be involved in assessing and developing the systems produced during the hackathon, he said.
The programme will culminate on September 25 when participants present their solutions before a panel of judges, with winners expected to be announced the same day.
Some of the winners are expected to receive opportunities to further develop their innovations outside Tanzania, including in South Korea.
The collaboration reflects growing efforts to use digital technologies to address practical challenges in agriculture, a sector that remains central to livelihoods and economic activity in Tanzania.