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Ivan Zhakata in MASVINGO
The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) has rewarded young innovators who successfully came up with solutions to revive the postal and courier services sector in the 2024 hackathon held in Masvingo.
The hackathon, also known as Innovation Drive Challenge 2024, scouts for young innovators whose companies will be funded by the authority.
It ran under the theme, “The future of delivery – parcel technology for tomorrow”.
Team FASA walked away US$50 000 richer after winning the hackathon.
They were followed by Blitztech who won US$45 000, while TINYA A.I walked away with US$40 000 after coming third.
A total of 10 teams took part in the hackathon.
The other teams were Sosho Pay, Zimbabwe Open University Innovations Hub, Hurudza Artificial Intelligence (A.I), Zethsoft Business Systems, Fabrizio Technologies, Netro Electronics and AeroClock Technologies.
The other seven teams received US$200 each for participating in the challenge.
In an interview, Sisasenkosi Sibanda of Team FASA said they were happy to have won the challenge.
“In our company, the end user is at the centre of our solution so we are with them all the way,” she said.
“We are considering the physically challenged people, those in rural and urban areas. We want to enhance the development of the smart Zimbabwe strategy while embracing the SDGs and enhancing ICT solutions.”
POTRAZ deputy director-general Mr Alfred Marisa urged the young innovators to strive to change the world with their innovations.
“This year’s challenge has a clear focus – to encourage sector-specific innovation among our youth in the postal and courier services industry,” he said.
“By harnessing the creativity and energy of our young minds, we aim to address the unique needs of this sector.
“Our approach provides a framework for solving industry-specific challenges and sets a blueprint for future initiatives, including our 2025 hackathon, which will explore innovations across various key sectors.”
Online Reporter