UNDP launches three-year innovation challenge
TANZANIA: THE United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched a three- years energy efficiency innovation challenge worth 250m/- , which intends to unveil paths for sustainable energy solutions.
The energy efficiency innovations challenge is a collaboration between the Ministry of Energy, European Union (EU) and the Ireland Embassy.
The initiative under the theme ‘Igniting Sustainable Energy Practices for a Greener Future’ is meant to strengthen the landscape of energy efficiency by fostering creativity and innovation.
Speaking during the launch, UNDP Communication Analyst, Mr Jolson Masaki said the imitative also aligns with the country’s Energy Efficiency Action Plan in order to harness the ingenuity of Tanzanian innovators to confront the pressing challenge of energy efficiency.
“It aims to stimulate the development of ingenious solutions that not only mitigate unsustainable energy consumption but also uphold principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship,” he said.
The innovators will be given incentive and support. Innovators are invited to apply for one of the ten grants, each worth up to 25m/-, to further develop and implement their groundbreaking innovations.
“These grants aim to provide financial support backing and encouragement to those who demonstrate exceptional potential in shaping a more energy-efficient future for the nation” he added.
Furthermore, he said, the 20 chosen finalists will participate in a one-week boot camp where they will receive coaching from energy experts to refine their ideas/ projects, while the finalists will be engaged in a mentorship programme for the duration of the project.
Launching the initiative, Commissioner of Electricity and Renewable Energy in the Ministry of Energy, Mr Innocent Luoga said the country embarked a journey of innovation and collaboration to address the critical need for energy efficiency in Tanzania.
Through the Energy Efficiency Innovation Challenge, he said, they aim to unlock the potential Tanzanian innovators and drive transformative change in the energy landscape in the country.
“The European Union is committed to supporting Tanzania’s journey towards enhanced energy efficiency. The Innovation Challenge presents a remarkable opportunity to harness the potential of youth and women-led organisations, among others. We eagerly anticipate witnessing the ingenuity and creativity of Tanzanians as they contribute to sustainable energy solutions,” Said Cédric Merel, Head of Cooperation of the EU in the country.
On her part Ireland Deputy Head of Development, Ms Mary McCarthy, said they recognises the importance of energy efficiency in strengthening climate resilience, contributing to climate mitigation efforts and supporting the development sustainable livelihoods in Tanzania.
“We are delighted to support the Energy Efficiency Innovation Challenge to catalyse creativity and innovation, particularly from young women, to address specific energy efficiency challenges and promote sustainability, ” she said.
Project Manager at UNDP, Aaron Cunningham said the launch of the ‘Energy Efficiency Innovation Challenge’ represents a crucial step towards achieving the goal of a more sustainable energy future for Tanzania.
“By empowering local innovators to develop cutting-edge energy-efficient technologies, we can drive positive change and create lasting impact in our communities, “she said.
