From plant-based affordable anti-malaria drugs to the Tryctor, a hybrid tractor-motorcycle, one of ten entries for the annual Innovation Prize for Africa could be the next big invention to come out of the continent.
Run by the African Innovation Foundation (AIF) — the prize was set up to encourage African growth and innovation.
This year saw a record 985 submissions from 46 African countries, which has now been boiled down to a list of ten top inventions competing for cash prizes totaling $150,000.
Made in Africa, for African problems
For its fifth anniversary the competition is themed ‘Made In Africa’ and has a particular focus on home-grown solutions for African problems.
This time it was particularly tough to choose the ten finalists, who were all exceptional, says Pauline Mujawamariya, Director, Innovation Prize for Africa
“They have all identified problems, and provided solutions. They have mapped out how they can bring the innovations up to scale and how they will have an impact on Africa, and that’s what we are looking for.”
Innovation is not new to the continent, which saw the rise of the pyramids and other works of ancient civilizations, says Mujawamariya.
“Showcasing African innovation once again today confirms that Africans are capable of solving their own problems and that all they need is access to resources to make it happen.”
A fast-track to success
And if previous winners are anything to go by, it is worth applying.
The 2013 winner, South African start-up Agri Protein, got investment straight away, Mujawamariya says.
“They were able to raise $11 million within a year.”
Three winners, with one prize of $100,000 and two each of $25,000, will be announced on June 23 in Gaborone, Botswana.