Lusaka-based tech and innovation hub BongoHive has partnered the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to launch the Ideas Challenge Zambia, aimed at finding innovative solutions to social problems in the country.
The IDEAS Challenge Zambia launched by UNICEF and BongoHive is an innovation competition bringing together teams of local software developers, designers, entrepreneurs, business advisers and subject-matter experts to turn innovative ideas into viable web and mobile-based products and services.
Focus areas for the competition are mapping, with participants encouraged to develop a platform that maps health facilities, schools, shops and other social facilities in Zambia, and focused antenatal, with the aim being to develop a platform that can help reduce the risk of maternal death and infant mortality.
Winning teams will enter a three-month incubation programme consisting of business development support services provided by BongoHive and UNICEF, while the teams will also be provided with one-on-one coaching sessions with mentors to further refine their ideas and prepare them for the launch of their solutions.
The deadline for applications is November 30, with individuals between the ages of 18 and 35 eligible to apply. Applicants are allowed to submit applications as individuals or in teams of not more than three people.
