DAR ES SALAAM: THREE startups won 30m/- in seed funding through the Energy Efficiency Hackathon 2026, underscoring efforts by the government and development partners to turn homegrown clean-energy innovations into commercially viable businesses.
Organised by the Ministry of Energy with the Embassy of Ireland, Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organisation (TIRDO) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the competition attracted more than 170 applications from young innovators.
Five teams advanced to a three-day boot camp before presenting their solutions to judges. Each winner received 10m/- in seed funding, along with mentorship, business development support and access to financial institutions to help commercialise their innovations.
TIRDO Director General Prof Mkumbukwa Mtambo said energy efficiency requires locally relevant technologies, applied research and strong links with industry.
“TIRDO is proud to provide a platform where innovators can transform ideas into practical prototypes and we remain committed to helping innovators develop solutions that respond to real energy challenges,” said Prof Mtambo.
The winning technologies address inefficiencies in buildings, electricity management and water infrastructure, areas that account for a significant share of energy use.
CHAP Solutions developed an integrated smart room controller that uses occupancy and environmental sensors to automatically regulate lighting and ventilation in lecture halls and public buildings, reducing electricity consumption and operating costs.
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SEMS Innovators emerged victorious with their Smart Energy Management System, an innovative solution designed to monitor and optimise electricity consumption in shared facilities such as university campuses and student hostels.
The system helps institutions identify energy wastage, improve efficiency and reduce electricity costs. Maji Guard won for an AI-powered water leak detection system that uses low-cost acoustic sensors to identify underground leaks, reducing water losses and the energy needed for pumping and distribution.
Embassy of Ireland Programme Manager, Fazal Issa said the Ushirikiano wa Kijani Project promotes climate action, innovation and youth empowerment. He said the winning technologies demonstrate how local innovation can address climate challenges while creating business opportunities.
UNDP Programme Specialist Dr Abbas Kitogo said energy efficiency remains among the fastest and most cost-effective ways to strengthen energy security, lower emissions and reduce operating costs.
“Combining seed funding with mentorship and access to finance gives young innovators a better chance of turning promising technologies into viable businesses,” Dr Kitogo said.
The hackathon is part of the Ushirikiano wa Kijani Project, which supports the National Energy Efficiency Strategy 2024–2034 by promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and climatesmart technologies.
Beyond the awards, the three startups will continue receiving support through TIRDO’s T-Hub to refine their products, prepare for market entry and pursue investment and industry partnerships.