top of page

Unlocking Kigezi's Future: Highland Innovation Hub Takes Root

  • Writer: Mike Taylor
    Mike Taylor
  • Jul 11
  • 1 min read
ree

Through a dual-accelerator model, the Hub is bridging agriculture and tourism to co-create inclusive rural economies.


In the Greater Kigezi Region, a bold new chapter in rural innovation has begun. Through a strategic collaboration between MBZ Group Africa and BVR Design Studio, the Highland Innovation Hub has launched as a platform to co-create and scale solutions across tourism and agriculture.


Why Now? Kigezi boasts fertile farms and draws over 100,000 visitors annually. Yet, tourism and agriculture have remained disconnected. With growing demand for authentic, sustainable travel, the Highland Innovation Hub bridges this gap; linking eco-lodges, farmers, processors, and innovators into one ecosystem.


The Dual Accelerator Approach

  • Agri-Challenge Accelerator (launched 2024): Supports farmers and agri-enterprises with tools, training, and commercial pathways through models like the Farmer Group Enterprise and platforms such as ShareCard and Emata.

  • TravelTainment Events Accelerator (launching 2025): Brings together tourism stakeholders and startups to co-create experiences, local products, and regenerative supply chains.

Together, these programs drive climate-smart, inclusive economic development.


Innovation Meets Impact Startups engage in a six month cycle of mentorship, pilot testing, and implementation—targeting five key impact areas:

  • Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship

  • Digitization

  • Market linkages & Economic Growth

  • Workforce Development

  • Value Creation


Expected Outcomes

  • Increased income for 500+ farmers and processors

  • Boosted tourism revenue through stronger integration of local products and experiences

  • Strengthen climate-resilient food systems

  • 50% youth and women inclusion

  • A scalable model for agro-tourism synergy across East Africa


Join the Movement Highland Innovation Hub is actively inviting startups, funders, and ecosystem partners to co-create the future of sustainable rural economies.

👉 Reach out to us at innovate@highlandhub.vc.


 
 
 
bottom of page