CMU-Africa Opens Applications for Umuhinzi Digital Hackathon 2026

Carnegie Mellon University Africa (CMU-Africa) has opened applications for the Umuhinzi Digital Hackathon 2026, an innovation competition aimed at developing digital solutions for challenges facing Rwanda's agricultural sector.

The hackathon will take place on June 27, 2026, at the CMU-Africa campus in Kigali. It is designed to bring together students and innovators from different backgrounds to explore how technology can help improve agriculture and support farmers.

Building Solutions for Agriculture

According to the organizers, the Umuhinzi Digital Hackathon seeks to bridge technology, business, and agriculture by encouraging participants to develop practical solutions to real-world agricultural challenges.

Participants will work in teams to pitch, design, and prototype digital tools that can improve productivity, access to information, and other aspects of the agricultural value chain.

Open to Diverse Talent

The competition is open to individuals with different skills and experiences, including:

• Software Developers

• UI/UX Designers

• Agribusiness Professionals

• Data Analysts

• Entrepreneurs

By bringing together participants from multiple fields, the hackathon aims to encourage collaboration and innovative problem-solving.

Cash Prizes and Key Dates

The top three teams will receive cash prizes in recognition of their solutions and overall performance during the competition.

Participation begins with an Expression of Interest application. Due to limited spaces, submitting an application does not guarantee selection. Successful applicants will receive an official invitation and registration link.

Important dates include:

• Application deadline: June 21, 2026

• Selection notification: June 23, 2026

• Hackathon date: June 27, 2026

The event will run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Carnegie Mellon University Africa.

Why It Matters

Agriculture remains a key sector in Rwanda, creating opportunities for innovation that can improve productivity and efficiency. The Umuhinzi Digital Hackathon offers young innovators a platform to apply their skills to real challenges while contributing to the country's growing technology and innovation ecosystem.

How to Apply

Application Form: https://forms.gle/Kt2YGMDCrHgGRret7