By Mark Kawalya
The 2023 MTN Uganda MoMo Hackathon has come to an end. The annual event showcased technological innovations and solutions, with 12 teams engaging in spirited competition and contending for a slice of the $10,000 grand prize. Beyond the competitive aspect, the event provided participants with a unique opportunity to connect with a dynamic community of developers across Africa. It also served as a networking hub, allowing participants to connect with different experts in various tech fields.
Kabokisi, EchoKash, and SharePay emerged as the overall winners of the hackathon. Kabokisi claimed the top position, taking home a $5,000 prize. The startup’s innovative platform aims to revolutionize traditional savings methods by providing a digital savings wallet with features such as setting savings goals, fundraising, auctions, and more. Notably, Kabokisi integrates with MTN MoMo, allowing for seamless payment transactions through voice commands.
EchoKash came in second, winning $3000. The startup developed an artificial intelligence-based tool facilitating voice-based transactions, catering specifically to users with visual impairments and limited literacy. Their technology represents a notable stride towards financial inclusivity.
SharePay came in third and won $2000 after presenting an innovative solution that simplifies the management of shared expenses. The platform offers a secure and convenient way for groups to split bills, mitigating the common challenges associated with such transactions.
Stephen Mutana, Head of Strategy at MTN MoMo Uganda, encouraged participants to take responsibility for their society by developing innovative solutions. Richard Zulu, Outbox Uganda’s co-founder and team principal, emphasized the importance of consistency in entrepreneurship.
Other pitching teams that presented their innovative ideas:
YoBus: showcased a comprehensive bus management system, allowing customers to book and pay for tickets using Mobile Money, among other functionalities.
Use Now, Pay Later: Demonstrated a tool that offers clients flexible payment options for goods and services during financially challenging periods.
Food Market App: Works as a bridge between farmers and customers, facilitating payments and exposure to larger markets.
Transact Unity: Focused on streamlining group payments, particularly for SMEs, through efficient bulk payments to suppliers, contractors, and individuals via web and mobile apps.
MugoCare: Developed a medical system consolidating health records, managing payments, and invoices for hospital bills in one portal to streamline healthcare management and digital patient records.
DepoPay: Designed a platform to allow individuals and organizations to deposit money for interest-free installment payments from known suppliers.
DAAFLOW: Created a digital finance assistant solution that tracks and manages finances for micro and medium enterprises.
