The training programme is delivered by JA Africa in collaboration with the Z Zurich Foundation through the Social Equity Programme
Arusha. More than 1,900 young people from 21 regions across Tanzania are poised to transform their innovative ideas into viable businesses following intensive entrepreneurship training.
The training programme, delivered by JA Africa in collaboration with the Z Zurich Foundation through the Social Equity Programme (SEP), equips youth with entrepreneurship, leadership and digital skills through bootcamps and mentoring.
In Tanzania, SEP is implemented by E3Empower Africa in partnership with NACTVET colleges, universities and non-governmental organisations.
Since its launch, SEP has reached over 19,500 students across regions including Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Kigoma, Mbeya and Zanzibar.
According to E3Empower Africa CEO Ji Young Rhee, the initiative has conducted 93 intensive four-day bootcamps, emphasising teamwork, innovation and problem-solving.
Central to SEP is the Junior Achievement Digital Entrepreneurship Platform (JA DEEP), which guides students through ten modules covering idea creation, customer identification, marketing, financial literacy and industrial testing.
More than 15,200 students have completed the digital training, receiving certificates and launching over 1,600 Social Impact Projects (SIPs) that address community challenges.
A facilitator in Misungwi, Edwin Masanta, noted that the digital approach equips participants with “crucial skills in resource management, product development and financial planning.”
To ensure inclusivity, E3Empower Africa has supplied routers and data packages to participants in remote areas.
The initiative is part of preparations for the AfrInnovate Youth Challenge (AYC) on September 27, 2025 at Arusha Technical College, where the top ten SIP projects will compete for national recognition and cash prizes.
Winners will also qualify for the regional AYC in 2027, featuring competitors from eight African countries. Local education leaders have lauded the programme’s impact.
“This initiative highlights the creativity and boldness of Tanzanian youth, inspiring others to follow suit,” said Misungwi Community Development Institute vice-principal Dongo Nzori Dongo.
Participants such as Misungwi student Elia Lukenzo described the training as “life-changing,” adding: “I have gained valuable business skills and financial literacy. Working in a team taught me the power of collaboration and critical thinking.”
JA Africa currently operates in 23 countries across Sub-Saharan Africa, reaching more than one million young people annually through practical training in entrepreneurship, financial literacy and work readiness.
