Mobile operator Airtel has launched an application challenge for startup developers, looking to attract developers from Africa and Asia to partner with it to release their products.
The challenge is a partnership between Bharti Airtel, Singaporean telecommunications firm Singtel and Samsung, and aims for the development of consumer-centric mobile apps leveraging on data, carrier billing, location and SMS.
“This initiative is a great opportunity for developers in Africa to come up with innovative mobile apps that directly touch individual consumer’s needs. We hope to partner with like-minded individuals who will come forward and work together with us to come up with apps that will help us deliver the best smartphone experience for customers,” said Airtel Africa chief executive officer (CEO) Christian de Faria.
Airtel will run the campaign promotions while Singtel and Samsung will organize a two-day mentorship programme for the regional winners and the final in November.
Interested parties have until September 5 to apply, after which two African winners will be selected to participate in the October mentorship programme in Singapore. The overall winners will be announced at the November final and will commence their assignments in 2016.
