A national technology competition targeting more than 50 youth-led startups and 1,000 technology jobs by 2029 has entered its final week of applications, with young innovators in Rwanda given until October 31 to apply.
The second edition of Code for Impact is seeking technology-based solutions to challenges in areas including education, health, agriculture, finance and business, transport and logistics, artificial intelligence, governance and communication.
The competition is open to people aged between 18 and 35, including university and polytechnic students, early-stage entrepreneurs, developers, freelancers and members of technology and innovation hubs.
Applicants can participate individually or in teams, while the programme is also seeking greater participation from women, persons with disabilities and other underserved groups.
Organisers are targeting more than 1,000 applications during the current edition, with selected participants expected to advance through pitching, mentorship and product-development stages.
The winning project is expected to receive Rwf3 million, while the second and third-place teams will receive Rwf2 million and Rwf1 million respectively.
The top five teams are also expected to enter a structured incubation programme in 2027, which will include mentorship, support with business registration, access to workspace and links to additional funding opportunities.
Code for Impact is organised by Mastery Hub of Rwanda and co-hosted by ALX Africa and MTN Rwanda, with support from other technology and innovation partners.
Beyond this year’s competition, the programme aims to help create more than 50 youth-led companies, at least 1,000 technology jobs and more than 250 working minimum viable products by 2029.
The core details remain supported by the competition’s official 2026 information and terms, including the October 31 deadline, eligibility, prizes and longer-term targets.
Elie GATETE
RADIOTV10