Following the success of the inaugural hackathon in 2021, Absa Bank Botswana recently hosted its second hackathon which brought together young leading innovators from across Botswana in its effort to pioneer the growth of FinTechs.
This year’s theme was centered on agriculture, where young Batswana were challenged to develop solutions that can solve the most pressing issues facing the agricultural sector.
The 9 participating teams presented their solutions to a panel of judges and the Bank. Absa announced the top three teams as:
- Team EO Analytics – Amantle Keitsile, Lone Lottering and Mokolobetsi Mugwana
- Team Digital Lead – Koketso Morapedi, Stillwell Jacob and Thabang Saakane
- Team Binary Thoughts – Otsile Motsila, Sephiwe Mangundu and Tumisang Kgarubane
As part of capacity building, the three finalists will undergo entrepreneurial skills development training as part of the incubation programme. The programme involves developing and strengthening team skills, solution abilities and processes. Moreover, the programme entails learning sessions with industry experts on various aspects of entrepreneurship aimed at guiding the young innovators on their entrepreneurial journey.
“The Agribusiness space in Botswana is a veritable source of greater sustainable economic development and as a bank, we aim to promote key developmental issues and opportunities within the Agri-sector. It is for this reason that as Absa Bank Botswana, we see it fit to actively participate, encourage, and look for purposeful and innovative ways to support the Agri-sector. Digitisation is the cornerstone of our operations hence we constantly look for digital solutions or ideas to transform and revolutionise our industries as well as support young talent to pursue their ideas,” said Keabetswe Pheko-Moshagane, Managing Director, Absa Bank Botswana Limited.
Following the completion of the incubation programme, the top three teams will have the opportunity to present their final solutions to esteemed industry leaders and judges and compete for the ultimate final prize. The final prizes for the top three comprise of P60,000, P40,000 and P20,000 respectively. All the finalists have also been provided with laptops, UDEMY licenses for one year, and the necessary equipment to enable reliable internet connectivity.
“As Absa Bank Botswana, we recognise the role we play in supporting our nation’s socio-economic growth. We believe that by combining our effort and expertise, we can innovate and grow, inspire, and challenge each other for a better tomorrow. We remain committed to implementing innovative projects that bring positive impact to our communities as well as deliver shareholder value.” Concluded Pheko-Moshagane.
