AFRICA PACHIPANDA CHALLENGE 2026 : Cameroon Crowned Champion of Technological Innovation in Johannesburg
La voix des entreprises 
(LVDE) — Crowned champion for the second consecutive year in Johannesburg, Cameroon has established itself as a continental benchmark in sustainable technological innovation. Through the nTron STEM Kit and AgriCheck projects, young Cameroonian innovators have once again demonstrated the strength of an ecosystem driven by green solutions and tech entrepreneurship.
Johannesburg, February 10, 2026. In a venue fully committed to advancing African innovation, the Cameroonian flag rose to the top during the continental final of the Africa PachiPanda Challenge. For the second year running, the country secured first place in this pan-African competition launched by the MTN Group in partnership with WWF. The achievement confirms the growing influence of Cameroonian tech talent on the African stage.
The Africa PachiPanda Challenge supports young people aged 18 to 35 in developing entrepreneurial and technological solutions that address the continent’s major environmental challenges, particularly within the food–energy–water nexus. Following national selection phases in participating countries, the best projects advance to a continental grand finale, where they are evaluated by a panel of experts in finance and sustainable development.
This year, Cameroon dominated the competition with the nTron STEM Kit project, led by Arnaud Njita. The innovative solution is transforming the teaching of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) by providing students with interactive learning kits that encourage hands-on experimentation. The jury praised the initiative as a powerful tool to strengthen scientific skills from secondary school level and nurture a new generation of African engineers.
Cameroon did not stop at first place. Third prize went to AgriCheck, presented by Bill Agha. The solution leverages technology to improve farm management, optimize yields and contribute to food security. By integrating data and digital tools, the project aims to help farmers address climate and economic pressures.
This double victory — first and third places — mirrors last year’s performance, when Cameroonian innovators achieved the same ranking. It highlights the increasing maturity of the country’s green innovation ecosystem, supported by public institutions, private sector stakeholders and civil society partners.
The winners received prizes of 3 million and 1.5 million CFA francs respectively, along with connectivity equipment and training sessions. Beyond financial rewards, the program provides strategic mentorship, access to investors and continent-wide visibility through MTN’s pan-African network and its partners.
According to Melvin Akam, General Manager Regulatory & Corporate Affairs at MTN Cameroon, the achievement reflects “the creativity, determination and excellence of Cameroonian youth.” He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to empowering young innovators who are building a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.
As a program partner, WWF also underscored its long-standing presence in Cameroon since the early 1990s, promoting sustainable natural resource management and biodiversity conservation. Through this initiative, WWF and MTN combine innovation and sustainability to help shape a greener future for Africa.
By triumphing in Johannesburg, Cameroon once again demonstrates that its youth represent a strategic force capable of addressing Africa’s environmental and economic challenges through technology.
Raphael Mforlem
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