The 2026 edition of the AYuTe Africa Challenge in Rwanda has selected 12 young agritech startups to move forward to an intensive training bootcamp, as part of the journey towards the competition’s grand finale.
Organised by Heifer International, the AYuTe programme, which stands for Agriculture, Youth and Technology, focuses on supporting young innovators using technology to solve problems faced by smallholder farmers.
This year’s competition attracted more than 1,200 applications from Rwandans aged between 18 and 35. After a detailed screening process, 12 startups were chosen based on the strength and potential of their ideas.
The bootcamp runs from April 20 to 24, 2026. During this five-day programme, participants will receive training to help them grow their businesses. This includes mentorship, business development support, financial planning, and opportunities to connect with industry experts and potential investors.
Verena Ruzibuka said the bootcamp is designed to prepare participants for the next stage of their journey. She explained that many young innovators have strong ideas but need support to turn them into scalable businesses.
Ruzibuka added that the initiative is not only about supporting individual startups but also about strengthening Rwanda’s wider agricultural system. She noted that youth-led innovation can help create jobs, improve farmers’ incomes, and build more stable food systems.
One of the selected participants, Abdu Usanase, said the opportunity marks an important step for his company. His firm provides farmers with guidance on seed selection, fertiliser use, pest control, and profit planning.
He said the bootcamp will give his team access to valuable knowledge, networks, and practical skills needed to improve their solution and expand their impact.
Throughout the programme, participants will take part in workshops focused on refining their business models, preparing for investors, and improving market strategies. At the end of the bootcamp, they will pitch their ideas to a panel of judges, with five finalists moving on to the grand finale.
This year’s competition offers a total prize of 65 million Rwandan francs, an increase from 50 million francs in 2025. The higher prize reflects growing support for young entrepreneurs working in agriculture.
The AYuTe Challenge aims to support businesses that can improve productivity, raise farmer incomes, and strengthen agricultural systems. Previous winners have used the platform to grow their companies, create jobs, and build partnerships across the country.
The 12 selected startups represent a new wave of innovators working to reshape Rwanda’s agriculture sector and support long-term, inclusive growth.
