Introduction:
In 2018, Tanager International’s Burkina Faso office approached us with an incredible opportunity. Their vision was to develop an app that would complement the SELEVER program, aimed at improving nutrition and women’s economic empowerment in rural Burkina Faso through poultry production. With the unwavering support of Andrews University School of Business Administration students(from Enactus) and faculty, we embarked on a transformative project that would change lives and uplift communities.
Project MangoTree:
Creating the Beta Version Our mission was clear: to create a beta version of the app that would empower women and communities in rural Burkina Faso. During several visits to Burkina Faso in 2019, our dedicated team of Andrews University faculty, staff, and students engaged in specification gathering missions. We tested colors, ensured cultural correctness, and focused on symbol recognition for illiterate end users. Collaborating closely with local business and village leaders, as well as micro-finance executives, we refined the app’s content and functionalities. The expedition was later featured as a highlight in the Summer 2019 Focus Magazine, a publication of Andrews University.
We named our project “MangoTree” after the shade of a mango tree under which we gathered to discuss and refine the specifications. Different classes at Andrews University worked collaboratively on various components, considering technical iterations, cultural sensitivities, and literacy levels. Our talented student developer, Daniel Arn, created the first conceptual beta app, which was successfully tested in August 2019 with over 50 participants in the village of Villy-Bongo near Koudougou.
Overcoming Challenges:
As we approached the launch of Project MangoTree, unexpected challenges arose. The global pandemic, political instability, and insecurity in Burkina Faso forced us to temporarily pause the project. However, our determination remains unshaken, and we are committed to overcoming these obstacles and ensuring the success of this impactful initiative.
Introducing Ujazi+:
Restarting the Journey Today, we are thrilled to announce the restart of Project MangoTree, now under the name Ujazi+, derived from the Swahili word for “fullness.” Ujazi+ embodies our vision of empowering users to take control of their personal finances, break free from the cycle of poverty, and achieve financial well-being. Ujazi+ (means fullness in Swahili), a small startup and a key partner in the project, has taken the mantle and will be launching the final product.
Launch and Future Plans:
We are fully dedicated to delivering Ujazi+ to the world, with a target launch date of 12 months from now. By December 2023, the FREE personal version of Ujazi+ will be available for download on both the Apple Store and Google Play. This user-friendly version will utilize familiar symbols, allowing non-literate users to track their available cash and savings effectively.
By December 2024, we aim to deliver the complete range of app functions, including the digitized Village Loan Savings Association (VSLA) passbook, support for small market entrepreneurs at the point-of-sale (POS), and Family-Based Earning (FBE) capabilities. We firmly believe that this innovative solution will have a profound impact on rural communities, enabling financial independence and improving overall quality of life.
Additionally, we welcome collaboration with mobile-to-mobile money transfer companies and not-for-profit organizations in need of similar technology solutions.
Support and Donations
To ensure the successful completion of Ujazi+, we gratefully accept any form of support or donation. Your contribution will play a vital role in empowering individuals and communities, fostering sustainable change, and breaking the cycle of poverty.
Join us on this remarkable journey as we revolutionize financial well-being, one community at a time. Together, we can make a lasting difference.
