After successfully running a pitching competition and Bootcamp, YEESI Lab has successfully registered five companies that will be based in Morogoro. The companies will undergo training under TAOTIC, a local NGO that incubates and supports early start-ups to establish. YEESI Lab is excited to announce the official names of the companies that will be developing products in collaboration with the Electronics and Precision Agriculture Lab (EPAL), which is based at the Sokoine University of Agriculture and the official premise of the YEESI Lab.

The companies are;

1. Agri Mifumo Limited

2. AgroScan Limited

3. LAPID Limited

4. AgroAI Limited

5. Smart Mifugo Digital Limited

These companies are seeking technical and administrative partners to collaborate with as they work on developing their products. The products are expected to be launched in a year's time. The YEESI Lab and EPA Lab will be available to them whenever needed, with a high level of commitment to completing the projects on schedule.

15 March 2024

The winners of the YEESI Lab Monday Pitch Competition, along with two other participating teams, underwent comprehensive training from 27th to 28th February, 2024, encompassing all essential aspects necessary to embark on the entrepreneurship journey. This training included an insightful session on brand management, expertly delivered by Dr. Emmanuel Chao from Mzumbe University. Additionally, Mr. Kiko Kiwanga provided invaluable guidance to aspiring youth through the UniLaunchPad program, offering essential knowledge on initiating and effectively managing a company within the Tanzanian business landscape.

The YEESI Lab UniLaunchPad Bootcamp is a pivotal platform, offering practical insights, knowledge, and mentorship to selected agritech startup projects. This initiative is designed with the following objectives in mind:

(a)To provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the UniLaunchPad program and the myriad opportunities it offers for startup development.

(b)To assist in the development of robust brand identities and the formalization of startup ventures, thereby augmenting their market presence and potential for success.

(c)To facilitate sponsorship agreements between Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) and the chosen startup projects, fostering mutual understanding and support between the academic institution and budding entrepreneurs.

Following the Bootcamp, the startups will be based at the headquarters of TAOTIC, under the leadership of Mr. Kiwanga, who serves as the Executive Director. TAOTIC plays a pivotal role as a local ecosystems-based social-tech venture-building partner, particularly in supporting ambitious youth, including college and university students, as well as recent graduates across Africa.

TAOTIC's overarching mission is to nurture local ecosystems, expedite career transitions, streamline venture-building processes, and bridge the pre-seed funding gap, thereby promoting startup entrepreneurship. This includes advancing the stages and mitigating risks associated with social-tech startup ventures while reducing impact investors' holding time. This innovative approach aims to bridge pre-seed startup funding gaps by mobilising and converting the purchasing power of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and the general public into collective, risk-free, high-return investment opportunities. This model provides our outsourcing partners with lucrative investment opportunities and offers well-versed social-tech startup founders and teams in Africa on-demand access to non-dilutive fundraising opportunities. This empowers them to bootstrap their innovative, globally relevant solutions, addressing pressing societal issues and catalysing positive social impact on a massive scale.

28 Feb 2024

On Monday, February 19, 2024, the Youth Empowerment through Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Innovation (YEESI) Lab orchestrated a highly acclaimed event known as the Monday Pitch Competition. This event served as a platform for seven youth groups to present their pioneering solutions, harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence, particularly Machine Vision Technology, to tackle pressing agricultural challenges. Dr. Kadeghe Fue, acting as the principal investigator of the YEESI Lab, had the distinct honor of extending a warm welcome to Honorable Adam Malima, the esteemed Morogoro Regional Commissioner, who graciously inaugurated the proceedings.

The event was graced by the presence of notable dignitaries, including Dr. Alexander Mtawa, Assistant Director for Science and Technology at the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, and Prof. Esron Karimuribo from Sokoine University of Agriculture, representing the Vice Chancellor's office of our institution. Additionally, representatives from various prominent media outlets in Tanzania enriched the occasion with their presence.

The participants from our institution showcased remarkable ingenuity and performance throughout the competition, earning them the opportunity to advance into spearheading startup initiatives. This progression will entail collaboration with key stakeholders within Tanzania's vibrant startup ecosystem. We extend our sincerest congratulations to these outstanding individuals and express our utmost optimism for their future endeavors.

It is noteworthy that the YEESI Lab project has garnered support from significant entities such as the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This support underscores the collaborative efforts aimed at fostering innovation and sustainability within the agricultural sector.

We are also indebted to TAOTIC, a local non-governmental organization based in Morogoro, for their invaluable assistance in the meticulous preparation and seamless execution of the YEESI Lab Monday Pitch Competition. Heartfelt congratulations are extended to TAOTIC for their commendable contribution to the success of the event.

Watch https://www.sua.ac.tz/news/watch-sua-yeesi-lab 

19th Feb, 2024

Hon Adam Malima, the Morogoro Regional Commissioner, emphasized that youth engaged in the YEESI LAB SUA project will play a pivotal role in bolstering agricultural production in the Morogoro Region. He further highlighted their contribution towards addressing environmental challenges in Mount Uluguru. This endorsement came during the launch of a youth competition aimed at fostering creativity and supporting young agricultural technology companies in Tanzania, organized by the YEESI LAB SUA project. Out of 100 participants, seven finalists emerged, who will receive assistance in establishing production companies within the Morogoro region.

The Regional Commissioner expressed his enthusiasm for the project, noting its focus on empowering youth, who are significant contributors to agricultural output. He expressed optimism that the initiative will provide agricultural education and employment opportunities and establish industries, with his office offering incentives and prioritization for their endeavors. Anticipating a significant boost in farmers' production by over 75%, he emphasized the importance of ensuring market certainty, urging Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) to support strategic crops such as cloves and avocados to enhance the region's economy while preserving the environment, particularly in the Uluguru mountains.

In contrast, Prof. Esron Karimuribo, representing the Vice Chancellor, underscored the university's commitment to nurturing creativity among the youth of the Morogoro region. He acknowledged a shift in focus over the past decade, recognizing the importance of creativity alongside traditional training and research functions, aligning with the global trend of universities serving as technological hubs to address contemporary challenges.

Dr. Alexander Mtawa, Assistant Director responsible for Science and Technology at the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, commended SUA for its role in youth development and innovation, highlighting its pioneering efforts compared to other institutions in fostering innovation within the country.

Dr. Kadeghe Fue, a YEESI Lab Project Leader, emphasized the support of creative young entrepreneurs in establishing companies within the Morogoro region. He outlined their role in addressing agricultural challenges through innovative solutions, ensuring that finalists receive assistance despite exceeding the initially anticipated number.

This three-year project, in collaboration with SUA, TAOTIC, the National Academy of Sciences, USAID, and USDA, signifies a concerted effort to promote innovation and sustainability within the agricultural sector.

19th Feb 2024

YEESI Lab invites applications to a pitch competition that is held together with TAOTIC, an NGO, based in Morogoro.

CameLabs annually hosts the much-anticipated EnhanceMind AI (emAI) Conference, a premier gathering for professionals specializing in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Data Science. This conference serves as a platform for discussing fundamental principles, pioneering advancements, and groundbreaking developments in the AI domain.

The event draws a diverse audience representing various industries, including technology, healthcare, finance, and more. Among the attendees, you'll find C-level executives, researchers, data scientists, engineers, and developers with a keen interest in staying abreast of the latest AI breakthroughs. Moreover, the conference offers a valuable opportunity for startup companies and entrepreneurs to explore fresh possibilities within the AI sector.

The EMAI online event, held from October 19th to October 21st, 2023, was a comprehensive and insightful workshop dedicated to exploring various aspects of artificial intelligence (AI) and its application in society. The event brought together experts from YEESI Lab and EPAL Lab, two sister laboratories, to share their knowledge and expertise with participants.

Over three days, participants gained a profound understanding of AI, from its fundamentals to its real-world applications. The event covered a wide range of topics, including 

·        The history and evolution of AI

·        The different types of AI, including machine learning and deep learning

·        The aims of AI and its potential impact on society

·        Real-world applications of AI in healthcare, manufacturing, and other industries

Day 1: Introduction to AI and Its Aims

The first day of the workshop began with a comprehensive introduction to AI. Experts provided participants with an overview of the history of AI, its evolution, and the fundamental concepts that underpin it. They discussed the aims of AI in depth, emphasizing its potential to solve complex problems, enhance automation, and improve decision-making processes across various domains.

Participants also learned about the different types of AI, including supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. They explored how these different types of AI are used to train machines to perform tasks such as image recognition, natural language processing, and decision-making.

Day 2: Machine Learning and Deep Learning

On the second day, the workshop delved into the fascinating world of machine learning and deep learning. The presenters discussed the different types of machine-learning algorithms and how they are used to train machines to learn from data. They also explored the different types of neural networks, the building blocks of deep learning algorithms.

Participants learned about the different architectures of neural networks and how they are used to solve complex problems. They also gained insights into the challenges of training deep learning models and the various techniques that can be used to overcome these challenges.

Day 3: Real-World Applications of AI

The final day of the event was dedicated to showcasing real-world applications of AI and machine learning. Prominent representatives from different sectors presented their working products that leverage AI and machine learning technologies.

These presentations highlighted the significant impact of AI on society, from improving healthcare through predictive analytics to enhancing the efficiency of manufacturing processes with smart automation. The event also provided a platform for networking and collaboration between participants from YEESI Lab and EPAL Lab, fostering knowledge exchange and potential future partnerships.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the EMAI online event served as a valuable platform for knowledge dissemination and collaboration in artificial intelligence. Over three days, participants were immersed in the world of AI, from its fundamentals to its practical applications. The contributions of experts and the presentations of real-world use cases underscored the increasing importance of AI in our society.

The participation of key figures from YEESI Lab and EPAL Lab, along with their respective researchers, created a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere, fostering the exchange of ideas and best practices. As AI continues to shape the future, events like EMAI are pivotal in ensuring that individuals and organizations remain informed and prepared to harness the transformative power of artificial intelligence for the benefit of all.

Additional Details

In addition to the topics covered above, the EMAI online event also featured several other notable aspects, including 

• Interactive sessions: Participants had the opportunity to participate in interactive sessions where they could learn from experts and apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems.

• Networking opportunities: The event provided ample opportunities for participants to network with each other and experts in the field of AI. This helped to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange.

• Diversity of speakers: The event featured speakers from various backgrounds, including academia, industry, and government. This provided participants with a diverse perspective on AI and its applications.

Overall, the EMAI online event was a well-organized and informative event that provided participants with a valuable learning experience. The event was successful in achieving its goal of providing participants with a profound understanding of AI and its potential impact on society.

21-October-2023

You may read more at https://www.digitalfrontiersdai.com/resources/digital-agriculture-ecosystem-assessment-tanzania/ 

Agriculture is a significant sector that plays a crucial role in the economy of many countries, particularly in developing nations. Digital agriculture solutions have emerged as a promising approach to enhance agricultural outcomes and uplift rural communities. These solutions offer access to a range of critical information, such as crop advisories, weather forecasts, and market prices, which can help farmers make informed decisions and improve their yield. 

Moreover, digital solutions provide credit options, including short-term credit for inputs and long-term asset financing for farm equipment, which can help farmers invest in their farms. Digital marketplaces for inputs and offtake can also help farmers connect with buyers more efficiently, enabling them to sell their produce at a fair price. 

Digital agriculture can help farmers access formal financial services such as loans, savings, and insurance products, which can help them manage risk and invest in their farms. Digital platforms can also provide farmers with access to extension services, training, and support, which can help them improve their knowledge and skills.

This report presents the findings of the Digital Agriculture Ecosystem Assessment conducted in Tanzania, commissioned by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through DAI. The assessment aimed to map relevant actors within the digital agriculture ecosystem in Tanzania, identify challenges and opportunities for effective digital technology adoption in the agriculture sector, particularly aligned with USAID/Tanzania’s priorities. Additionally, it assessed the specific challenges and opportunities for Tanzanian women and youth in digital agriculture.

The assessment found that digital agriculture solutions have the potential to enhance smallholder farmer livelihoods, increase profitability, and promote sustainable broad-based economic development in rural areas. However, several challenges hinder the adoption of digital technology in agriculture, such as inadequate infrastructure, limited digital literacy, and insufficient access to finance. 

The assessment also highlighted the specific challenges and opportunities for Tanzanian women and youth in digital agriculture. Women and youth face several barriers to participating in digital agriculture, such as limited access to digital devices, low digital literacy, and social norms that restrict their participation in economic activities. However, digital agriculture can also offer women and youth new opportunities for employment and income generation, particularly in the non-farm sector. 

Overall, the assessment underscores the potential of digital agriculture solutions to transform the agriculture sector in Tanzania and benefit smallholder farmers, women, and youth. However, realizing this potential requires addressing the challenges and opportunities identified in the assessment and developing effective strategies to promote digital technology adoption in agriculture.

https://www.digitalfrontiersdai.com/resources/digital-agriculture-ecosystem-assessment-tanzania/ 

EPAL and YEESI lab are featured at page 44.

30 September 2023

During a demonstration at the EPAL farm in the Morogoro Region, a farmer showcased the use of a 5g cup for fertilizing a test farm. EPAL farm is currently conducting experiments with four different treatments - 0g, 5g, 10g, and 15g - to evaluate the effectiveness of UAVs in providing guidance for fertilizer application. A drone has been deployed over the field to capture images, which will be utilized to train a model to differentiate between plants that require fertilizer and those that do not. Additionally, the YEESI Lab has introduced machine vision technology to students working at EPAL farms.

26th Sept 2023

From September 24th to 26th, 2023, our EPAL team visited the Mang'ula Farmers for five days. During our stay, we collected drone imagery data and captured images of different crop diseases. We also held Focus Group Discussions to explore the most effective methods for irrigation and fertilizer application.

27-Sep-2023

With his smartphone application, SG-NAPI awardee Kadeghe Goodluck Fue of Tanzania provides farmers with timely indications on irrigation and fertilization

YEESI lab PI featured on the TWAS website: https://twas.org/article/tailoring-needs-african-farmers

21-September-2023

Dr. Kadeghe Fue has been selected to present at the Tanzania Health Summit, which will take place from October 3rd to 5th, 2023 at Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC), Dar es Salaam. He will be discussing his co-authored publication entitled "Development of a Data-Driven Machine Learning Conceptual Framework for Predicting Climate-Sensitive Water-borne Disease Outbreaks." Dr. Neema N. Lyimo, the PI of the ACHE Project, Dr. Joseph P. Telemala, co-PI of the ACHE, Dr. Silvia F. Materu, Dr. Kadeghe G. Fue, and Dr. Ndimile C. Kilatu are all contributors to the publication. The ACHE Project, which stands for AI Climate and Health, is supported by Lacuna Fund and Meridian Institute.

3-October-2023

The YEESI Lab is elated to make known the attainment of dual funding secured by members within its training and data teams. These grants, both centred around the application of AI technology, have been generously provided by COSTECH, which is supported by IDRC and NORAD. This achievement is a notable milestone for the YEESI Lab members at Sokoine University of Agriculture, reflecting the members' remarkable dedication to pursuing the lab's mission to provide comprehensive training to young individuals in machine vision.

Under the guidance of Dr. Michael P. J. Mahenge, a dedicated member of the YEESI Lab's training team, the first group has achieved a significant victory by successfully securing a grant for their groundbreaking project titled "Advancement of Artificially Empowered Crop Disease Surveillance Prediction and Management." This accomplished team encompasses individuals of high distinction, including Prof. Camilius A. Sanga, a co-Principal Investigator at the YEESI Lab, Dr Felician Ishengoma from SUA, and other prominent members hailing from SUA, TPHPA, and RECODA.

Simultaneously, a parallel endeavour led by Dr. Neema N. Lyimo, a respected member of the YEESI Lab's Data Team, has also realized the successful acquisition of a grant for their innovative initiative titled "Digitizing the Fish Farming Value-Chain for Augmented Productivity and Food Security within the Lake Victoria Basin in Tanzania." This team comprises dedicated members from SUA, KAFFC, and TAFIRI.

28th August 2023

Ms Rehema Mwawado and Ms Catherine Mangare, both instructors at YEESI Lab, were selected to participate in "Women in Tech and AI" program held in Morocco from August to December 2023. 

Rabat - The Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), an institution gaining prominence in Morocco, initiated a summer school focused on technology and AI. The "Women in Tech & AI" program is designed to equip participants with the skills to navigate the challenges and evolving requirements brought about by the rapidly digitizing global economy.

"Women in Tech & AI" stands as a collaborative endeavor forged between the OCP Foundation and the AI Movement at Mohamed VI Polytechnic University. This initiative is strategically designed to empower a cohort of 150 African women who harbour a keen interest in technological innovation and artificial intelligence. The overarching goal is to equip these women with the tools and knowledge required to formulate impactful solutions that effectively tackle the diverse array of challenges prevalent across the African landscape. The sectors under consideration encompass health, education, social advancement, agriculture, security, and environmental sustainability. In doing so, this initiative plays a pivotal role in fostering the advancement and metamorphosis of the African continent.

Hailing from varied backgrounds, these proficient women are bound together by their collective ardor for technology and artificial intelligence. Comprising a group of 34 participants hailing from 11 different African nations, they contribute a mosaic of diverse experiences and specialized knowledge to the program.

22nd August 2023

Heifer Tanzania, in collaboration with Sahara Ventures, has selected Mr. Ibrahim Meshack and Mr. Stephano Mashauri, both pursuing Agricultural engineering at the Sokoine University of Agriculture, to participate in the AYuTe Africa Challenge. They are proposing to develop an on-the-go nutrient detection device that integrates a Mobile app with Artificial Intelligence Technology.

This challenge awards cash grants to young agritech innovators using technology to revolutionize farming and food production in Africa. Heifer International invests over $1.5 million annually to promote digital agriculture entrepreneurship in Africa through the AYuTe initiative. In 2022, the AYuTe Africa Challenge has expanded its reach by introducing national competitions in Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Tanzania, Malawi, and Uganda, providing young innovators with the opportunity to secure funding and visibility to bring their ideas to life.

Many congratulations to Mr Ibrahim and Mr Stephano.

Check previous winners. Read More. 

21st August 2023

Reported by Winfrida Nicolaus SUA MEDIA

Chuo Kikuu cha Sokoine cha Kilimo SUA kupitia Idara ya Uhandisi Kilimo imekuja na Roboti linalojiendesha lenyewe lenye uwezo wa kupiga dawa ya kuuwa magugu au wadudu kwenye sehemu husika pekee kwenye Maonesho ya Wakulima, Wafugaji na Wavuvi Kanda ya Mashariki yanayoendelea katika Viwanja wa Mwalimu Julius Nyerere mjini Morogoro.

Hayo yamebainishwa na  Donat Shukuru Mkufunzi Msaidizi toka Shule ya Uhandisi na Teknolojia, Idara ya Uhandisi Kilimo SUA wakati akizungumza na SUAMEDIA kwenye Maonesho hayo kuhusiana Vumbuzi mbalimbali wanazozifanya ikiwemo Mashine za Teknolojia za kisasa au Mashine zinazotumia Akili bandia pamoja na Mifumo mbalimbali itakayoleta Tija kwenye Kilimo.

Amesema lengo la kuleta Teknolojia hiyo ya Roboti ni kuhakikisha Kilimo kinafanyika kwa usahihi kwa kuwa inaenda kuokoa gharama za Uzalishaji kwa kupunguza matumizi ya dawa vile vile kusaidia kuondoa matumizi ya dawa yasiyohitajika kwenye Mazingira kwa kuwa kuweka dawa kwenye Mazingira bila kujua ni kiasi gani kinachohitajika ni kuchafua Mazingira.

Vile vile kwa kuwa Roboti hilo linajiendesha lenyewe linakuwa linamuweka mbali  mtumiaji wa dawa na kumuepusha kuathirika na dawa hizo hivyo inaonesha ni jinsi gani Teknolojia hiyo ilivyo ya muhimu na kuleta Tija kwenye Kilimo. 

“Tunahusika pia na Vumbuzi mbalimbali kama Mashine za kutotoreshea Vifaranga, Mashine za kuangulia mayai kama ni mazima, Mashine za automatic za Umwagiliaji (Automatic irrigation system) vile vile tunahusika na Mifumo mbalimbali ya simu kama vile Mifumo ya kushauri kiasi cha maji cha Umwagiliaji na Mifumo ya kuangalia Magonjwa kwenye Mimea”, amesema Mkufunzi huyo. 

07 August 2023

Today, 18th July 2023, the Vice Chancellor of @SokoineU, @RChibunda visited our booth at the 8th Higher Education, Science, and Technology Exhibitions. We were able to showcase our innovations and fly a PA Drone for him. Precision Agriculture (PA) works at @SokoineU. www.epalab.org 

He has promised support from the university whenever needed so that the lab can continue innovating solutions that are important for farmers.

18th July 2023

On 10th July 2023, our colleague, Farian Severine Ishengoma, successfully defended his PhD thesis titled "Integrated Drone Technologies and Machine Learning Techniques for Early Detection of Fall Armyworm in Maize Fields: A Case Study of East Africa" at the African Center of Excellence in Internet of Things - ACEIoT, situated at the University of Rwanda, Rwanda.

Dr. Farian has made significant contributions to the field, having published his research in esteemed and prestigious journals, namely Ecological Informatics and Computers and Electronics in Agriculture. Additionally, he has presented his work at prominent international conferences, such as the 12th Computer Science On-line Conference 2023 and Computational Methods in Systems and Software 2022. The fact that prominent researchers cite his work demonstrates his research findings' novelty, acceptability, maturity, and elegance (NAME).

Moving forward, Dr. Farian plans to focus on publishing more peer-reviewed manuscripts based on data from the YEESI lab, which can be accessed at this link: https://www.zenodo.org/record/7729285.

We invite the YEESI LAB, ACEIoT, and SUA communities, as well as the wider academic community, to join us in congratulating Dr. Farian Severine Ishengoma for this remarkable achievement.

For further information, you can explore his publications through the following links:

• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1574954121002934

• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168169921001423

• https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-35314-7_10

• https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-21438-7_8

10th July, 2023

On Saturday, July 8, 2023,  YEESI LAB held a training workshop at the Solomon Malangu campus on how to build startup companies and the key features that enable their survival. The workshop was conducted by Mr. Albany James, a Product Development Director for Anzisha Ventures and a highly accomplished serial entrepreneur. After the training workshop, students from both Edward Moringe and Solomon Malangu campuses had different insights to share: 

a) Thuwaiba Abdul-razak: I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation for the training workshop organized by YEESI on Saturday. The session proved to be an invaluable source of knowledge, enlightening me on the contrasting impacts of excessive capital and the absence thereof. It was through this experience that I acquired a profound understanding of the inherent challenges posed by an abundance of capital, as well as the unique obstacles faced when one lacks sufficient capital. 

b) Jackline Ulenje: I, Jackline Ulenje, a dedicated third-year student pursuing a degree in Irrigation and Water Resources Engineering, am delighted to express my profound appreciation for the Saturday workshop that I had the privilege of attending. The workshop proved to be an invaluable opportunity, allowing me to enhance my understanding of the intricate process of selecting an ideal business partner and effectively harnessing individual talents when establishing a company. I am elated to convey that the workshop provided me with valuable insights and knowledge in making informed decisions regarding partnership selection. One crucial lesson I gleaned from the session was the recognition that while friendship is undoubtedly important, it should not be the sole determining factor when choosing a suitable company partner. This newfound understanding has significantly broadened my perspective and equipped me with a more nuanced approach to forming successful and sustainable business alliances. As an aspiring professional in the field of Irrigation and Water Resources Engineering, this workshop has played an instrumental role in shaping my future endeavours. The invaluable guidance received on effectively leveraging individual talents within a partnership will undoubtedly contribute to my ability to establish and nurture successful business ventures. I extend my sincere gratitude to the organizers of the workshop for their meticulous planning and execution, which provided me with a remarkable learning experience. The knowledge and skills acquired during the session will undoubtedly serve as a solid foundation for my academic and professional growth.

c) Ibrahim Meshack: I extend my heartfelt congratulations to your esteemed lab for orchestrating an exceptional training session this past Saturday. As Ibrahim Meshack, a dedicated second-year student pursuing a degree in Agriculture Engineering, I am delighted to express my gratitude for the invaluable knowledge I gained regarding securing initial capital for a startup. The workshop underscored the significance of effectively pitching our ideas in pitching competitions. The training session provided me with invaluable insights and practical guidance on the crucial aspect of securing the first capital required to initiate a startup venture. I now possess a deeper understanding of the strategies and approaches necessary to attract potential investors and secure the financial backing essential for transforming entrepreneurial aspirations into reality. The emphasis placed on pitching competitions as a valuable avenue for showcasing innovative ideas has inspired me to hone my communication and presentation skills, empowering me to effectively convey the value proposition of my future endeavors.

d) Gervas: The lack of guidance regarding the initial steps and necessary actions to build a startup company can be likened to a blind person unknowingly moving towards a pit. My name is Gervas, and I am currently a third-year student pursuing a degree in Agriculture Engineering. During my educational journey, I have gained valuable insights into the essential aspects of registering a company. It has become evident that when embarking on the process of registering a company, three primary institutions should be prioritized: BRELA, TRA, and a bank. These entities hold critical roles in ensuring a smooth and compliant registration process for a new business venture. Understanding the significance of engaging with BRELA, TRA, and a bank has equipped me with valuable knowledge that will guide me in laying a solid foundation for my future entrepreneurial pursuits.

e) Stephano Mashauri: It has come to my attention that "Sheli" is not a Swahili term for a filling station. I am Stephano Mashauri, a dedicated second-year student of Agriculture. Through the enlightening Saturday workshop I recently attended, I acquired valuable insights into various aspects of entrepreneurship, including the art of creating compelling company names like "Sheli," effective investor management strategies, and diverse sources of income for startup ventures. During the workshop, I gained a deeper understanding of the significance of crafting impactful company names that resonate with target audiences. The session provided me with valuable techniques and principles to consider when developing compelling and memorable brand identities, such as "Sheli." This knowledge will undoubtedly prove invaluable as I embark on my own entrepreneurial journey. Furthermore, the workshop shed light on the critical role of investor management in the success of startup companies. I gained valuable insights into the effective communication strategies and relationship-building techniques necessary for attracting and retaining investors. Understanding how to nurture these vital relationships will play a pivotal role in securing the necessary financial support for future ventures. Additionally, the workshop highlighted the importance of diversifying income sources for startup enterprises. I learned about various avenues through which startups can generate revenue, thereby reducing dependence on a single income stream. This knowledge will enable me to explore innovative and sustainable ways to ensure the financial stability and growth of my future ventures.

f) Pascal Kamsini: My name is Pascal Kamsini, and I am currently a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Bioprocessing Engineering. I am pleased to share that the recent Saturday workshop has provided me with valuable insight: every problem encountered presents an opportunity, albeit with the crucial distinction that the problem should be approached from a communal perspective rather than a personal one. Through the workshop, I gained a deeper understanding of the transformative power that lies within challenges. I learned to recognize that each problem is not only a hurdle to overcome but also an opening for growth and development. However, it was emphasized that for these opportunities to be fully realized, the focus should be on communal challenges—issues that affect a larger group or community—rather than solely personal ones. This perspective shift has significantly influenced my understanding of problem-solving and innovation. I now recognize the importance of considering the broader context and impact of the challenges we face. By addressing communal problems, we have the potential to make a more significant and lasting difference, creating positive change that extends beyond our individual circumstances.

g) Adam Jamal: I am Adam Jamal, currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Irrigation and Water Resources Engineering. The Saturday workshop I attended proved to be an enlightening experience, as it provided valuable insights into three distinct pathways for building startup companies through investor involvement: pitching, competitions, and incubation. During the workshop, I gained a deeper understanding of the pivotal role investors play in the growth and success of startups. The session emphasized three effective approaches to attracting investor support and securing the necessary resources for entrepreneurial ventures. The first approach highlighted the significance of pitching, which involves presenting a compelling business proposal to potential investors. I learned about the key elements of an effective pitch, including clear communication of the value proposition, market potential, and financial projections. This knowledge will undoubtedly be invaluable as I seek to secure investor backing for future startup endeavours. The second avenue explored in the workshop was participation in competitions. These events provide entrepreneurs with a platform to showcase their innovative ideas and gain exposure to potential investors. I gained insights into the strategies and techniques necessary to craft a winning competition entry, including capturing the attention of judges, clearly articulating the problem-solving aspect of the business, and demonstrating market viability. Lastly, the workshop discussed the concept of incubation, which involves partnering with established programs or organizations that provide support, mentorship, and resources to startups. This approach allows entrepreneurs to benefit from expert guidance, networking opportunities, and access to investors within the incubation ecosystem. I learned about the advantages of incubation and the criteria to consider when selecting the right program for a specific startup.

h) Nsonga Barnabas: The workshop I attended provided me with valuable knowledge regarding two essential aspects of business sustainability: understanding the concept of burning cost per month and recognizing the significance of intermediate capital. Firstly, I learned about the concept of burning cost per month, which refers to the amount of capital a business requires to cover its operating expenses on a monthly basis. This crucial metric allows entrepreneurs to accurately assess their financial needs and plan accordingly. By understanding their burning cost per month, businesses can make informed decisions regarding budgeting, investment, and cash flow management, ensuring their operations remain sustainable. Secondly, the workshop shed light on the importance of having intermediate capital. This refers to the availability of funds or resources that can sustain a business during periods of unexpected challenges, fluctuations in revenue, or unforeseen expenses. Intermediate capital serves as a financial buffer, providing stability and allowing businesses to weather temporary setbacks without compromising their operations or long-term viability. Understanding the significance of intermediate capital enables entrepreneurs to proactively plan and secure resources to mitigate potential risks and ensure business continuity. It emphasizes the importance of strategic financial management and highlights the need to build resilience and adaptability into the core of a startup or business venture. 

i) Shimbi: As a diligent student pursuing a degree in Agriculture Engineering, I am delighted to express my profound appreciation for the Saturday workshop organized by YEESI LAB. This enlightening session proved to be immensely beneficial, particularly in the realm of problem-solving. The workshop emphasized a crucial principle: rather than investing excessive efforts in creating new solutions, we should prioritize technology transfer by leveraging existing ones already in production. The workshop's emphasis on this approach to problem-solving resonated deeply with me. It underscored the importance of efficiency and resource optimization in addressing challenges within the field of agriculture engineering. By leveraging existing technologies and solutions that have already been developed and proven effective, we can save time, effort, and resources while still achieving desired outcomes. The workshop has broadened my perspective and provided me with valuable insights into the principles of technology transfer and its significance in problem-solving. This newfound understanding will undoubtedly influence my future endeavours within the agricultural engineering domain, guiding me towards more efficient and sustainable approaches to addressing challenges.

08 July 2023