By: Kanto
Kai Okanta
Vodacom Mozambique has
concluded the 3rd edition of the M-Pesa Finckathon 2026, bringing together
university students and educators from across the country to develop
technology-driven solutions aimed at advancing financial inclusion.
The four-day innovation
challenge brought together 39 students and 13 teachers representing 13
universities across eight provinces of Mozambique, with participants focusing
on ways to make financial services more accessible, inclusive and relevant for
citizens.
The event challenged young
innovators to transform ideas into practical solutions addressing financial
inclusion challenges through technology. Participants presented projects
designed to improve access to digital financial services and support communities
through innovative approaches.
The DND Team from the
Institute of Science and Technology of Mozambique (ISCTEM) emerged as the
overall winner of the competition, receiving a prize of 100,000 meticais. The
Fin-Shield Team from Eduardo Mondlane University secured second place with a
prize of 75,000 meticais, while the Innovation Triggers Team from the
Sociotechnical University of Mozambique placed third and received 50,000
meticais.
Vodacom Mozambique said the
Finckathon goes beyond recognising winning teams, serving as a platform to
equip young people with skills, networks and confidence to develop solutions
that respond to real community needs.
The company highlighted that
financial inclusion requires more than expanding access to digital services,
noting the importance of empowering young innovators to contribute ideas and
solutions that support inclusive economic growth.
