The contest aims to nurture innovation and provide mentorship to emerging entrepreneurs across the country.
Kigali – The Tangira StartUp TV Contest, Rwanda’s inaugural entrepreneurship platform, has announced the top 12 entrepreneurs selected from a pool of 50 candidates. This initiative is dedicated to discovering, nurturing, and celebrating innovation among Rwandan youth.
The contest, which aims to provide mentorship and exposure to emerging entrepreneurs, has garnered support from various partners including the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD), IGIHE, and the Rwanda ICT Chamber, among others. These partnerships have been instrumental in the success of the first season of the contest.
Remmygious Lubega, CEO of RG-Consult, the project curators, highlighted that the past two months have opened doors for many Rwandans who previously lacked access to entrepreneurship and mentorship programs. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity, noting that the contest was designed to engage entrepreneurs who may not be proficient in English, thus allowing a broader range of participants to showcase their skills.
Purpose of the Contest
The primary goal of the Tangira StartUp TV Contest is to connect emerging entrepreneurs with mentorship opportunities while providing them with visibility and access to potential funding. The initiative aims to create a repository of entrepreneurship content that is accessible to all Rwandans, regardless of their language proficiency.
The contest was launched on August 18, 2025, inviting startups from various sectors, including agriculture, health, and technology, to submit a 90-second video pitch. This call for submissions attracted hundreds of entries, showcasing the diverse entrepreneurial spirit present in Rwanda.
After a rigorous evaluation process, which included judges’ scores and public votes, the top 12 startups were selected to advance to the mentorship stage. Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, CEO of the Rwanda Stock Exchange and a panel judge, praised the courage of the entrepreneurs, stating that their participation is a testament to the strength of Rwanda’s startup ecosystem.
Mentorship Program
The selected entrepreneurs will participate in a six-week structured mentorship program aimed at refining their business models and strategies. This program will be held at the UNDP Timbuktoo HealthTech Hub in Kigali, starting October 28. Industry professionals, including Phiona Ingabire and Jean de Dieu Habaguhirwa, will lead the mentorship sessions.
The contest will feature six episodes showcasing the mentorship process and live pitches, with weekly eliminations leading up to the grand finale. The winners will be recognized in several categories, including Best Women Led Enterprise and Most Promising Enterprise, with cash prizes totaling Rwf10 million provided by the Rwanda ICT Chamber.
Categories and Awards
- Most Promising Business (Rwf2,500,000 + Internship Programme)
- Best Women Led Business (Rwf1,500,000 + Internship Programme)
- Youngest Entrepreneur (Rwf1,500,000 + Internship Programme)
- Best Digital Tech Business (Rwf1,500,000 + Internship Programme)
- Best Social Impact Business (Rwf1,500,000)
- Public Choice Business (Rwf1,500,000)
The top 12 entrepreneurs include:
- Jean Damascene Iradukunda – Afriinox Ltd (Kigali)
- Dieudonne Musabe – Musabe Consultancy Company Ltd (Kigali)
- Omer Niyigena – Eco-Crop Ltd (Huye)
- Joseph Collin Habimana – Logan Investment (Kigali)
- Thiery Patrick Ishimwe – Jordan Pharmacy (Kigali)
- Charles Zirimmwabagabo – One Health Connect (Kigali)
- Venuste Hategekimana – Vekaz Green Tech Ltd (Kigali)
- Herve Ishimwe – Mindtech Innovation Ltd (Kigali)
- Janviere Umuhirwa – Examina Group Ltd (Musanze)
- Aline Uwimpuhwe – Africa Wizzy Safaris Ltd (Rubavu)
- Carine Mutoniwase – Nerica Soap (Muhanga)
- Patrick Niyonkuru – Legacy Tech Hub (Kigali)
In conclusion, the Tangira StartUp TV Contest represents a significant step towards fostering entrepreneurship in Rwanda, providing young innovators with the necessary tools and support to succeed in their ventures.
Key Points
- Tangira StartUp TV Contest unveils top 12 entrepreneurs from 50 applicants.
- The initiative aims to provide mentorship and visibility to emerging entrepreneurs.
- Selected startups will undergo a six-week mentorship program starting October 28.
- The contest includes various categories with cash prizes totaling Rwf10 million.
- The project is supported by multiple partners, enhancing its reach and impact.
Sources: PRESS RELEASE: Rwanda’s first StartUp TV Contest ‘Tangira’ unveils top 12 entrepreneurs