Heifer International Uganda has officially launched Season 5 of the AYuTe Africa Challenge Uganda, reaffirming its commitment to empowering young innovators to develop technology-driven solutions that transform agriculture and improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.
Held under the theme “Go Big. Go Bold.”, the launch brought together government officials, development partners, innovators, academia and the private sector to officially open applications for the 2026 competition.
This year’s challenge features the National Agritech Innovation Track and the Busoga Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Track, offering funding, mentorship and business development support to promising youth-led enterprises.
Representing the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), Commissioner for Agricultural Extension and Skills Management Consolate Acayo commended the initiative for creating opportunities for young people to solve real agricultural challenges.
“Innovation is key to the future of Uganda’s agriculture. Through initiatives like AYuTe, we are giving young people the opportunity to develop practical solutions that improve farming, create jobs and strengthen food security,” she said.
Speaking at the launch, William Matovu, Country Director of Heifer International Uganda, said the organisation remains committed to nurturing the next generation of agritech innovators.
“AYuTe is about unlocking the potential of young entrepreneurs to build businesses that improve the lives of smallholder farmers while transforming agriculture through innovation,” he said.
Officials said youth entrepreneurs aged 18–35 years are encouraged to apply and compete for catalytic funding, mentorship and business acceleration support as they develop scalable solutions for Uganda’s agricultural sector.