PRESS RELEASE - 23rd May 2024, 10 AM – Kampala, Uganda:
The Youth Startup Academy Uganda (YSAU), an initiative focused on promoting youth-led entrepreneurship and economic development, is thrilled to announce that 15 of its startups will participate in GITEX Africa 2024. This event, scheduled for May 29th to 31st in Morocco, brings together tech enthusiasts, startups, investors, and industry leaders from around the world. YSAU's participation underscores its commitment to empowering young entrepreneurs and highlights the dynamic entrepreneurial spirit emerging from Uganda.

Hive Colab has played a pivotal role in nurturing YSAU startups, shaping the next generation of tech entrepreneurs. The YSAU program is implemented in collaboration with the International Trade Centre, Korea SMEs and Startup Agency, and NITA Uganda. These partnerships provide a robust foundation for developing and scaling startup ventures.
The 15 YSAU startups to be showcased at GITEX Africa 2024 are:
Arthur Abaliwano of Anchor Systems
Agatha Nambuya of AUTOFORE
James Don Katumba of Beet Fresh Yoghurt
Ssembajjwe David of Camelot Agroecology Farm
Itaagi Devin of Canine Safaris
Jane Babirye of GOCOLORS Paint Uganda
Josyline Kayiziaki of Goldie Coatings
Muhumuza Grace of iKnowFarm
Akatuha Grace of Kikazi Agri Products
Kimera Allan of Lara Fragrance House
Alan Mugalu of Ntakye Holdings
Isaac Odongo of Organic Route
Isaac Tenywa of Rwetech Farmers’ Co-operative Society
Frank Akankwasa of Suzie Water Harvesting
Jimmy Ouni of Truism
These startups are set to make significant impacts across various sectors of the economy. GITEX Africa 2024 provides them with opportunities to pitch their ventures to potential investors, network with industry leaders, and stay updated on the latest technological trends. This exposure is crucial for securing funding and strategic partnerships to grow their businesses.

In addition to this exciting participation, Hive Colab proudly announces that 13 YSAU startups have secured a collective USD 200,000 to assist in their expansion and growth. The startups include Bringo Fresh, Yunga Technologies, Anchor Systems, Truism Holdings, MOHCA Beauty & Skincare, Agrosahas International, MSCAN Uganda, Goldie Coatings, Skyline Media, Suzie Water Harvesting, Emrich Agro Ecological Farm, Sharecard Ltd, and Edu-Plastics.

At the press conference, Robert Bob Okello, Associate National Coordinator of YSAU, emphasized the program's goal to support 1000 entrepreneurs in Uganda across four cohorts. "The YSAU is a collaboration between the ITC, KOSME, which is part of the Ministry of Startups and SMEs in the government of Korea, Hive Colab, and NITA Uganda. Our mission is to prepare startups for investor readiness and to position them on platforms where they can interact with regional and international investors. By participating in events like GITEX Africa in Marrakesh and similar events in Korea, we aim to expose our startups to the global stage. The success of the YSAU program in Korea, which has already produced two unicorns, inspires us to replicate this success in Uganda."

Barbara Birungi Mutabazi, Co-founder and Executive Director of Hive Colab, elaborated on the unique position of Uganda in the YSAU initiative. "Uganda is the first country outside of Korea to host the YSAU program, showcasing that successful models can be localized. The collaboration has enabled a rich exchange of knowledge and best practices, which we have tailored to meet the needs of our startups. It's not just about training; it's about creating tangible investment opportunities. By investing in startups with potential to scale globally, we aim to cultivate unicorns. When investors see that we believe and invest in our own startups, they are more likely to follow suit. This USD 200,000 investment is just the beginning, as we continue to open more avenues for funding and support. Our goal is to position these startups in front of investors, not just locally but globally."

Sandra Awili, CEO & Founder of Sharecard, shared her positive experiences with YSAU, noting the valuable connections and learning opportunities at GITEX Africa 2023. “At the YSAU, startups have had the opportunity to connect and learn from different economies, particularly at GITEX Africa 2023 where they pitched, connected, and networked.”

David Matsiko of Bringo Fresh highlighted the benefits, saying, “Through my participation at GITEX Africa 2023, I secured investment and connected with like-minded entrepreneurs who have since joined my team.”
Phyllis Kyomuhendo of MSCAN Uganda expressed her gratitude, stating, “I was privileged to attend GITEX Africa 2023, which was the biggest global stage with the opportunity to compete at the Supernova Challenge with companies from different continents. I received a Women in Tech Award to recognize the talent that comes from Uganda.”

This year’s event promises even greater opportunities for the 15 YSAU startups, furthering their journey towards innovation and success on a global stage.