Driving Innovation and Impact: AMUA Accelerator’s Path to #AccelerateProgress
As we celebrate Women’s Month this year, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on how AMUA Accelerator, a partnership between UNFPA Tanzania and Sahara Ventures, has significantly contributed to this year’s theme of #AccelerateProgress. AMUA empowers Tanzanian youth, including women, to generate innovative solutions that address sexual and reproductive health-related challenges affecting them.
The Power of Artistic Expression: Leveraging Art, Innovation, and Technology
Last year, amidst trials and triumphs, the AMUA team embarked on a transformative mission to uplift Tanzanian youth by harnessing creativity, innovation, and technology to drive meaningful change. At the heart of AMUA’s initiatives lies a steadfast commitment to addressing critical issues in Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) in Tanzania.
AMUA was granted funding to implement one activity under the Safeguard Young People program, a joint initiative between UNFPA Tanzania and the Swiss Embassy. Collaborating with the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Youth, PRO-RALG, youth networks, and artists, AMUA leveraged the power of street murals to disseminate vital messages about Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) to young people in Dar es Salaam and Shinyanga. This artistic endeavor exemplifies the potential of art in fostering dialogue and raising awareness on CSE.
From Challenge to Creation: AMUA’s Street Murals
Our team meticulously recruited and selected a diverse cohort of 15 talented artists, including four exceptional female talents. Following an intensive boot camp in November 2023, the artists honed their skills to develop well-rounded street murals that effectively communicate CSE messages. This resulted to seven compelling murals, approved by the Ministry of Health and BASATA, which now grace the streets of Kishapu, Shinyanga and Temeke, Dar es Salaam. These vibrant artworks ignite conversation and empower local communities.
Catalysing Innovation: AMUA’s Technological Breakthroughs
In 2023, AMUA’s impact extended beyond art and into the realms of technology and entrepreneurship. The project team introduced an Agile Monitoring and Evaluation Platform (ame.amua.or.tz) and a Virtual Incubation Platform (incubation.amua.or.tz). The former enables startups to track progress and impact in real-time, while the latter provides resources and mentorship for growth. Launched in December 2023, these platforms marked a momentous achievement and continued support for AMUA’s startup portfolios, many of which address SRH challenges affecting young women.
A Call to Action: United for Women’s Progress
As a Project Manager, I am immensely grateful to lead the collaborative work achieved by Sahara Ventures alongside UNFPA Tanzania. This Women’s Month, let us celebrate the resilience, creativity, and determination of Tanzanian women and reaffirm our dedication to empowering initiatives that drive development and impact women’s lives. I urge development partners and other stakeholders to join us in accelerating progress for women, ensuring inclusivity and opportunity for all.
Happy Women’s Month!
