Exciting things are happening at the Rwandan UniPod, the creative nursery for the UNDP timbuktoo initiative! Ten talented innovators from across Africa, selected from an impressive pool of 164 applicants are gathered in Kigali for a three week bootcamp on the use of Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) Machines for the creative sector

These innovators represent a vibrant mix of backgrounds from Uganda, Burkina Faso, Zambia, Liberia, Guinea Bisau, Lesotho, Benin, Malawi, , and, of course, Rwanda. Togethave convened to unleash their creativity and drive change in the continent's creative sector.

Prior to joining the bootcamp, the innovators were all involved in the design and production of creative art pieces, including jewellery, home décor, furniture, and more.

However, all 10 had one common challenge- they did all their production manually, which affected their ability to consistently meet the market demand on time and with the same quality. This is a challenge that is not only unique to the 10 innovators present in Kigali, but a wide spread issue in the creatives sector in Africa. 

The bootcamp is focusing on hands-on training of the innovator  in computer aided designing of  creative pieces and production through CNC machines. The skills gained form this bootcamp will empower the innovators to automate their production, drastically shortening the amount of time required to create pieces while also increasing their accuracy and quality of products.  In addition, the CAD software is bound to unlock new ways of creative expression for the innovators, empowering them to bring more complex ideas to life and in doing so expand their businesses. 

The bootcamp is also taking a Training of Trainer approach, which means the innovators have access to all training materials and will be tasked with delivering a similar training program at their host UniPods. 

Initially designed as a three-week program culminating in a showcase at the YouthConnekt Africa Summit, the UniPod has adjusted its focus to expedite the first phase. The immediate goal is to create stunning jewelry pieces that will shine at the YouthConnekt summit under. However, the journey doesn't stop there! Future phases will explore furniture, textiles, and ornamental creations, allowing the young innovators to fully unleash their creative potential.

Given that the UniPods represented in Kigali are part of a 20 country Pan African UniPod network, there is room to scale the application of CNC machines for the creatives sector across Africa. Looking ahead, the lessons coming out of Kigali will be used to design a creatives program for Unipods. Starting next year innovators will be able to visit the UniPod to receive training and begin producing art pieces using UniPod equipment. There are plans to have an online store through which innovators will sell their pieces at a global scale. In return the UniPod will charge a commission for sustainability.

“The most important thing is that we are learning how best we can do our work using the technology of the CNC machines. I'm also really excited about the cultural exchange that comes with the bootcamp! Being with people from different backgrounds with whom we share the creative language allows me to learn from their experiences, how they price their work, and so much more. That diversity is truly beautiful!” Prosper MUGANZA, Founder, the African Queen.

Witnessing the enthusiasm and innovation blossoming during this bootcamp is a reality of the promise to highlight the incredible talent and creativity within Africa’s youth.

“This bootcamp will not only groom these #African brilliant minds in improving their skillsets but will also act as ground for interaction and crossbred ideas. By supporting the innovation of the youth, we are truly doing ourselves a favor by setting up the next generation for success,” Fatmata Lovetta Sesay, UNDP Resident Representative.

Let’s celebrate the journey of shaping the future of innovation in Africa, one brilliant idea at a time as w ebehold the remarkable contributions these young minds will bring to our communities and beyond!