The bootcamp, running from April 20 to April 24, 2026, brings together finalists selected from more than 1,200 applicants aged between 18 and 35. All participants submitted technology-driven solutions aimed at improving agriculture.
During the training, the entrepreneurs are being equipped with practical skills to scale their businesses, attract investors, and manage finances. They are also engaging with leaders from various institutions who are providing mentorship and professional guidance.
In addition, participants are being coached on how to effectively present and refine their business ideas before a panel of judges, as they prepare for the competition’s final pitch.
The Country Director for Heifer International Rwanda, Verena Ruzibuka, said the bootcamp was designed to bridge gaps identified among the selected entrepreneurs, particularly in aligning their current progress with their long-term ambitions.
“We identified a gap between where the selected entrepreneurs are and where they need to be to grow their ventures effectively. This bootcamp is meant to close that gap,” she said.
Ruzibuka added that the goal is for participants to emerge as credible, investment-ready entrepreneurs and leaders in agri-tech, capable of transforming smallholder farming in Rwanda.
She noted that supporting these entrepreneurs goes beyond individual projects, contributing to broader goals such as strengthening the agricultural sector, creating jobs, supporting smallholder farmers, and safeguarding future food systems.
One of the participants, Abdu Usanase, founder of Agriresearch Unguka Ltd, described the bootcamp as a valuable opportunity.
“Being part of the AYuTE bootcamp is a major step for us. We are gaining mentorship, building networks, and taking part in activities that will help refine our projects to better support young farmers. We are excited to learn, grow, and compete in the next stage,” he said.
The Agriculture, Youth and Technology (AYuTE) Africa Challenge is a competition that promotes innovative agri-tech solutions to boost agricultural development.
Prize money for winners has increased from Rwf 50 million to Rwf 65 million. The initiative targets young people interested in investing in Rwanda, offering them an opportunity to gain practical skills while also competing for financial support to scale their businesses.
Leave a Reply