World Bank launch innovation fair in Mozambique

THE WORLD BANK, in partnership with Mozambican institutions, launched the "Innovation Fair 2007" in Mozambique. The Fair is open to both Mozambican and foreign individuals and organizations. This is an event that is aimed at stimulating innovation and creativity under the theme 'Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for Rural Development'.

Khovete Panguene, an official of the World Bank, told reporters that the event, the first of its kind in Mozambique, aims to encourage the use of ICTs for rural development, and the winners will be awarded between $10,000 and $20,000 to implement their projects. To enter the contest, participants must present by the 27 August, a description of their idea. The proposals may also be presented in partnership with institutions, and may be fully original or based on ideas that are already in use somewhere else. 

Participation is open to community organizations, NGOs registered in the country, academic institutions (universities, technical and secondary schools) and research institutions. Private companies, municipalities and district governments and other registered organizations may also enter. The event is being organized by the World Bank, in partnership with the Mozambican Science and Technology and Transport Ministries. Other partners in the initiative include the country's largest commercial bank, the Millennium-BIM, and the two mobile phone companies Mcel and Vodacom.

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