Digital solutions are the way to go. There is an app for just about everything these days and that means that app developers are increasingly in high demand. To develop most apps however, there has to be a need to which the app brings a solution.
Currently for example, there is need for mobile apps that are useful in the fight against COVID-19 as well as other issues that may arise in the future in Africa. Towards this, The Africa Telecommunication Union launched the ATU Africa Innovations Challenge 2020 on Thursday August 20th. This is a competition that is designed to identify, recognize and support young African Innovators. Other than being offered mentorship and partnership programs, the winner of the challenge will also walk away with US$5000 in prize money.
The African Telecommunications Union is a specialized agency of the African Union, in the field of telecommunications. It was founded in 1977 when the AU was otherwise known as Organization of African Unity, and it took its present name in 1999. The ATU currently has 48 Member States drawn from Governments and 43 Associate Members from within and outside the African region.
The launch of the challenge event whose title sponsor is Huawei brought together a number of innovators, ICT ministries and regulators and academia. It was themed around How Africa Can Stay above the Impact of COVID-19 through Innovation.
“We are happy to bring Huawei on board. For over 20 years Huawei has been building ICT infrastructure, promoting ICT skills and enabling ICT innovation across Africa. We believe the trustworthy partner can support this initiative with their expertise, insight and experience both globally and locally. “
ATU Secretary General Mr. John OMO
The ATU innovation challenge is an initiative that seeks to provide both short and long-term solutions and opportunities to the African Youth. With increased suppression of the social fabric in many communities in Africa as a result of COVID-19, and in consideration of the fact that a large population of Africa are youths who are generally living in difficult conditions, the competition promotes the idea that the ability for countries’ readiness for digital solutions, could significantly help address some of these challenges.
The event was also used to unveil ATU’s new logo as part of the Union’s re-branding effort.