TANZANIA is set to showcase its growing innovation ecosystem as preparations advance for the 2025 edition of Innovation Week Tanzania (IWTz), scheduled for 12th to 16th May in Dar es Salaam and other satellite locations across the country.

Organized in partnership with UNDP Tanzania through its FUNGUO programme, the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH), and Vodacom Tanzania, this year’s event will run under the theme "Innovation for an Inclusive and Resilient Future."

 It aims to harness local ingenuity and global best practices to tackle challenges such as youth unemployment, the digital skills gap, and urban sustainability.

A major highlight of the week will be the Vodacom Future Ready Summit (FRS 2025), which will focus on how digital innovation and inclusive policies can drive the transformation of Tanzanian cities and communities.

Shigeki Komatsubara, UNDP Tanzania’s Resident Representative, emphasised the role of innovation in accelerating development.

"Innovation is not a luxury but a necessity for inclusive growth," he said. "Through the FUNGUO program, we are empowering youth, women, and startups across Tanzania. IWTz 2025 will showcase our innovation ecosystem and catalyse new ideas and partnerships."

Dr. Athumani Mgumia, director at COSTECH, said Innovation Week 2025 aligns closely with Tanzania’s Vision 2050.

"It is a platform for public and private sectors to co-create solutions that respond to citizens' needs and position Tanzania as a regional leader in innovation," he noted.

Philip Besiimire, Vodacom Tanzania’s managing director, underscored the company's role in driving digital transformation.

"Vodacom is more than a telecommunications provider—we are a catalyst for progress," he said. "Through initiatives like Code Like a Girl, Digital Accelerator, and the Future Ready Summit, we are creating platforms that empower Tanzanians to shape a digital and inclusive future."

Besiimire noted that the summit complements Vodacom’s broader mission of "connecting for a better future," exemplified by innovations, and digital education programs, which have expanded access to critical services nationwide.

The program will feature exhibitions, workshops, investor roundtables, and networking sessions, spotlighting local startups, policy innovations, and advances in sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and finance.

Regional activations are already underway to ensure nationwide participation. Universities including the State University of Zanzibar, SAUT, Sokoine University of Agriculture, University of Dodoma, Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology, and Mbeya University of Science and Technology are hosting activities to engage innovators, startups, and students.

With anticipation building, Innovation Week 2025 promises to be a dynamic showcase of Tanzanian creativity, collaboration, and commitment to building a resilient future.