Prof. Mkenda Rallies Young Innovators as UDSM Hosts iMbeju Startup Challenge 2026
By Zamda George, CMU
The Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Adolf Mkenda, has challenged young innovators to focus on solving real-world problems, emphasizing that impactful ideas will always attract funding regardless of prevailing perceptions about financial constraints.
Speaking as Guest of Honour at the IMBEJU–UDSM Startup Challenge 2026 held on 5 May 2026 at the New Library Auditorium of the University of Dar es Salaam, Prof. Mkenda said innovation success depends more on relevance and sustainability than access to capital.
“I came, I saw, and I am truly inspired,” he remarked after touring exhibitions by student innovators.
“Money is not the problem. If you are solving a real problem and your innovation demonstrates long-term income-generating potential, funding will follow—whether through grants or soft loans”, he said.
He highlighted several promising innovations showcased at the event, including laboratory test-tube production from the Chemistry Department, environmentally sustainable brick-making technology, and a locally developed tractor, commending the latter for its strategic approach to collaboration and efficiency.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Dar es Salaam, Prof. William-Andey Lazaro Anangisye, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to advancing national development through research, innovation, and skills development.
“The University of Dar es Salaam stands firmly behind these efforts in advancing innovation, strengthening research, and delivering solutions that contribute to national development”, said Prof. Anangisye.
Prof. Anangisye also commended the Government, particularly the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, for its continued support in strengthening the country’s innovation ecosystem, while recognizing the role of the CRDB Bank Foundation in empowering youth and unlocking entrepreneurial potential.
He further called on young innovators to embed patriotism in their work. “Let us innovate with a sense of uzalendo (patriotism), ensuring that what we create contributes meaningfully to our country and improves the lives of our people’.
Resilience and mentorship for successful innovation ventures
Earlier, the Director General of the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology, Dr. Amos Nungu, underscored the importance of resilience and mentorship in building successful innovation ventures.
“If you are not successful in this challenge, do not give up. Through our collaboration with partners, more than TZS 4 billion has been mobilized to support the scaling and commercialization of innovations”, he urged.
The event also featured insights from stakeholders supporting youth innovation. Ms. TullyEsther Mwambapa, the Managing Director, CRDB Bank Foundation highlighted the institution’s strategic positioning in supporting young innovators.
“CRDB Bank Foundation operates as an NGO, but with strong institutional backing. This enables us to invest meaningfully in young innovators and contribute to the country’s socio-economic transformation”, she noted.
‘Take action early and position yourselves strategically’
Adding a practical perspective, Prof. Neema Mori, UDSM Director of Public Service and Associate Professor of Finance at UDSM Business School, encouraged students to act early and position themselves strategically.
“Take action and position yourselves early so that you do not miss out on opportunities that can shape your future”, she advised.
Earlier in the programme, the Deputy Vice Chancellor – Research, Prof. Nelson Boniface emphasized the importance of teamwork and collaboration in delivering impactful innovation programmes.
“Often, after success, recognition goes to visible leadership, while those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes are overlooked,” he said, acknowledging contributions from key coordinators including Prof. Lilian Kaale.
Prof. Lilian Kaale, the Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (DIEN) at UDSM, guided participants on how to access opportunities through the IMBEJU programme, including mentorship, incubation, and funding via the Fursa platform.
Organized in collaboration with the CRDB Bank Foundation, the iMbeju–UDSM Startup Challenge 2026 brought together student innovators, policymakers, and industry leaders, reinforcing the University of Dar es Salaam’s position as a national hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
The event featured exhibitions, expert dialogue, and strategic engagement aimed at bridging the gap between academic research and market-ready solutions, further positioning higher education institutions at the centre of Tanzania’s innovation-driven economic transformation.