TIA innovators transform cotton value chain
MWANZA: YOUNG innovators from the Tanzania Institute of Accountancy (TIA)– Mwanza campus have developed digital systems aimed at addressing key community challenges, particularly in the cotton value chain and access to housing.
Speaking to reporters recently, the innovator of a digital cotton weighing scale system, Mr Paschal Shija revealed that manipulation of weighing scales at rural cotton-buying points has been causing significant losses to farmers.
To tackle the problem, he decided to design an Electronic Digital Scale System, a solar-powered electronic weighing machine integrated with Artificial Intelligence (AI) to provide farmers with real-time market price guidance.
“This electronic digital scale can operate even in areas with limited electricity because it is solar-powered. The AI-based pricing system helps farmers access current market prices instantly,” Mr Shija explained.
He noted that the scale features automated receipt generation and SMS notifications for farmers during transactions. The system can also integrate with Electronic Fiscal Devices (EFDs) to support government revenue collection.
“The system issues receipts and messages directly to farmers, helping reduce fraud in some cotton cooperative unions while increasing government revenue,” he said.
Meanwhile, another student, Mr Idrisa Yusuph, has developed a digital housing platform called ‘Nyumba Kiganjani’, which connects landlords, tenants and housing agents to simplify access to rental properties nationwide.
The platform allows property owners to upload and advertise available houses online, while tenants can search, compare and secure rental homes more conveniently.
“This platform will make house-hunting faster and easier. Landlords can list their properties, and tenants can find suitable homes without hassle. The system will also create employment opportunities for youth through marketing and data research,” Yusuph explained.
He called on the government and stakeholders to support youth-driven innovation, highlighting its potential to create jobs and advance technology in Tanzania.
“We urge fellow youth not to give up and appeal to the government to support us so we can bring our ideas to the market,” Mr Yusuph added.
