//

Zambian tech and innovation hub BongoHive has signed a sponsorship arrangement with local operator MTN, which will see the partners build an enabling environment for developers in the country.

Through the arrangement, MTN Zambia will provide support to application and software developers at BongoHive, aiming to stimulate interest in technology among young people and expose them to an economic platform. The hub recently rolled out its “Launch” accelerator programme, aimed at helping local startups accelerate their growth.

“This sponsorship will provide an enabling environment in which developers are able to conceptualise, and bring to life applications that not only make lives better for business enterprises and the masses, but are also money making ventures for the young people,” said Charles Molapisi, chief executive officer (CEO) of MTN Zambia.

“The MTN platform will be substantially rewarding for the many unemployed but tech savvy youths. The challenge is now up to young people out there to be as innovative and creative as they can be. We are here to provide the support, training and mentorship.”

Lukonga Lindunda, director at BongoHive, said the hub, which has been supporting entrepreneurs for five years, saw the partnership as a big milestone.

“The partnership will help accelerate what we have built so far. It’s our goal that the startups can be able to leverage on this partnership and be able to not only start businesses and make money for themselves but also create an impact in their communities,” Lindunda said.

“Our motivation is that we put Zambia on the map by supporting that local entrepreneurs and bring down the barriers he may face, provide access to the facilities and assets he needs. A person with a great idea should be able to walk into BongoHive and get access to the content, training and internet to start working on their ideas. BongoHive itself looks to grow the entrepreneur ecosystem.”

BongoHive also announced a partnership with Cavmont Bank, aimed at improving financial awareness and mentorship among local entrepreneurs and MSMEs. The partners committed to working together to improve the delivery of a seamless and robust mentorship and coaching programme for entrepreneurs and MSMEs coming through the BongoHive system.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with BongoHive, whose incubator programme for startups has proved incredibly successful. Cavmont is delighted to be able to not only provide bespoke product and service bouquets that speak to the needs of this segment but also dedicate more time and human resources to the educational and mentorship aspects of the training programme. This is another affirmation of our commitment to supporting local business initiatives with real potential for impact and social value.” said Charles H. de B Carey, CEO of Cavmont Bank.

The post Zambian tech hub BongoHive gains sponsorship from operator MTN appeared first on Disrupt Africa.

from Disrupt Africa http://ift.tt/1Pg4sBG