Tanzania - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Tanzania Smartlife, is a youth-led startup recycling waste into eco-friendly, economical and more efficient charcoal briquettes. This innovation reduces indoor air pollution, curbs deforestation, enhances waste management, and empowers communities.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Tanzania SmartLife is a youth-led startup based in Mwanza, Tanzania, focused on recycling waste into sustainable charcoal briquettes branded as Mkaa Smart. Our innovative product offers a clean, smokeless, economical, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional charcoal. By shifting to Mkaa Smart, we contribute to reducing indoor air pollution, a major health concern from traditional charcoal and firewood use. We help combat deforestation by providing a sustainable fuel source, preserving Tanzania's forests from destruction caused by firewood and charcoal production. Our initiative also enhances waste management practices, reducing the burden on local landfills. Through this project, we aim to address several Sustainable Development Goals, including Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) SDG 7( Affordable and Clean Energy) and Goal 13(Climate Action). Tanzania SmartLife is committed to making a positive environmental impact while driving social and economic benefits for local communities.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

In Tanzania,only 7% of households use clean cooking fuels and technologies. The remaining 93% rely on wood and charcoal causing deforestation and indoor air pollution,(SOURCE TDHS 2022). Daily exposure to household air pollution from using wood and charcoal, particularly affecting women and children who spend most of their time near cooking areas, leads to severe health issues such as ischemic heart disease, stroke, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and lung cancer. The World Health Organization reports that indoor air pollution from these cooking methods leads to approximately 680,000 deaths annually in Sub-Saharan Africa. To address indoor air pollution and deforestation, Tanzania SmartLife produces briquettes from recycled waste. These smokeless, sustainable briquettes provide affordable cooking fuel, enhancing health and preserving the environment. Our eco-friendly alternative to traditional charcoal helps households and businesses find safe and economical solution

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

Tanzania SmartLife's Mkaa Smart briquettes offer numerous benefits for users: Health and Safety: They burn without smoke, reducing indoor air pollution and health risks, especially for women. The briquettes also produce no sparks, enhancing safety during use. Efficiency and Performance: Mkaa Smart briquettes have high fixed carbon and calorific value, offering more efficient energy than traditional charcoal and wood. They burn three hours longer due to increased strength and fewer cracks. Minimal evaporative substances eliminate odor, ensuring a consistent, clean cooking experience. Cost-Effectiveness: At $0.31 per kilogram, briquettes are twice as economical as traditional charcoal. Their high density and low moisture ensure longer burning, saving costs. Environmental Benefits: The ash produced are used as manure or recycled to briquettes, contributing to sustainable practices. These advantages make Mkaa Smart briquettes an excellent choice for efficient and cost-effective solutions.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Mkaa Smart briquettes serve various beneficiaries with unique advantages. Households: Particularly beneficial for stay-at-home moms, these briquettes provide a cleaner, healthier cooking option, which is crucial for women, who often bear the brunt of traditional cooking smoke, safeguarding their well-being. Food Service Industry: Restaurants, fast food establishments, and hotels find value in the briquettes' efficient energy. With longer burning times and high energy output, they cut fuel costs and ensure consistent cooking quality, Critical for quality service and profitability. Saunas and Poultry Farmers: These sectors appreciate the briquettes' reliable heat output. For saunas, this guarantees a stable heat source, while poultry farmers maintain an optimal conditions for livestock, enhancing their health and productivity. Institutions: Boarding schools and prisons benefit from Mkaa Smart briquettes' affordability, durability, and safety, ensuring cost savings and efficiency.

01.05 When was your company established?

2022-06-22

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

3

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

2

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

1.Olivaleah Uliki (CEO). Role: Oversees overall project management, including planning, coordination, and resource mobilization. Responsibilities: Leads strategic decision-making, ensures alignment with Tanzania Smartlife goals, and fosters collaboration among team members and stakeholders. 2. Frank Pima (CTO) Role: Leads Mkaa smart manufacturing operations and development. Responsibilities: Designs and optimizes production processes, oversees equipment maintenance, and ensures product quality and efficiency. 3.Gladness Ndosi (CFO) Role: Manages financial aspects of the company. Responsibilities: Handles budgeting, financial planning, and monitoring of expenses. Manages financial records and ensures compliance with regulations. 4.John Furaha John (CMO) Role: Leads marketing and brand management efforts. Responsibilities: Develops marketing strategies, executes promotional campaigns, and manages brand positioning. Conducts market research and identifies growth opportunities.

01.10 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link(s) here:

https://tzsmartlife.co.tz/ https://www.instagram.com/smartlife_tanzania?igsh=anM5OGJ4M2g5azFx

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

a) Energy (equipment, services, sustainable energy and fuel)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Tanzania Smartlife helps fight poverty by offering jobs to overlooked groups like waste transporters, farmers, and collectors, especially vulnerable women and stay-at-home moms who collect trash. By working with us, they earn money and gain economic independence. Our startup creates lasting ways for people to support themselves, lifting them out of poverty and improving their lives. We believe in fair opportunities for everyone, including those who might struggle to find work otherwise. By including these groups, we're working towards a world where poverty is a thing of the past, benefiting everyone.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

While we may not directly address hunger relief, Tanzania Smartlife indirectly contributes to the Zero Hunger goal through sustainable agricultural practices. By promoting the use of our clean energy solutions of Mkaa Smart briquettes, we help reduce deforestation, soil degradation, and greenhouse gas emissions associated with traditional cooking methods. This contributes to preserving arable land and promoting sustainable farming practices. Additionally, our initiatives create employment opportunities for farmers, empowering them economically and strengthening local food systems. By supporting farmers and sustainable agriculture, we contribute to long-term food security and improved nutrition, aligning with the broader aim of achieving Zero Hunger.

02.03.01 My startup contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

Tanzania SmartLife strongly contributes to the Good Health and Well-being goal by providing cleaner cooking solutions through our Mkaa Smart briquettes. By reducing indoor air pollution, our briquettes promote healthier living environments, particularly for women and children who are most vulnerable to respiratory illnesses caused by long term exposure to traditional cooking methods. Additionally, our initiatives indirectly support community health by reducing deforestation and mitigating the effects of climate change, which can have significant impacts on public health. Through our sustainable energy solutions, we aim to improve overall well-being by fostering cleaner, safer, and healthier living conditions for all, aligning with the broader goal of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for individuals of all ages.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

2

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

My startup doesn't directly impact education. However, by offering affordable and clean cooking options like Mkaa Smart briquettes, we help families save money for education. Also, our work for a cleaner environment makes learning spaces healthier. Though education isn't our main focus, we support better opportunities for everyone.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Tanzania Smartlife strongly contributes to gender equality by empowering women by reducing cooking time and the burden of firewood collection, women gain more time for family, education, or sports, fostering greater gender equality. Moreover, our initiatives create economic opportunities for women within the industry, providing employment and entrepreneurship avenues like charcoal distribution, waste collection, transportation and other works in the briquettes manufacturing cycle, which contributes to household incomes and financial independence. We also promote women's participation in decision-making processes, enhancing their leadership and representation in the energy sector. Through these efforts, we not only empower women economically but also strive to create a more inclusive and gender-equal society where women have equal access to economic opportunities and leadership roles.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

4

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Tanzania Smartlife start up strongly contributes to the goal of affordable and clean energy. Our smokeless charcoal briquettes offer a sustainable and modern cooking solution that is both affordable and environmentally friendly. By eliminating smoke and sparks, our briquettes improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of respiratory diseases, particularly for lower-income and extended families who may have limited access to clean energy alternatives. Additionally, our products are affordable, making them accessible to a wide range of households, food vendors, restaurants, poultry farmers, boarding schools and saunas. Through our innovative approach to energy production, we strive to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status, have access to clean and affordable energy solutions, ultimately improving their quality of life and contributing to sustainable development.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

Our startup Tanzania Smartlife strongly contributes to decent work and economic growth by creating employment opportunities and fostering sustainable economic development. Through our initiatives, we provide jobs for various stakeholders, including waste transporters, farmers, and workers involved in the production and distribution of our products. By promoting sustainable energy solutions like smokeless charcoal briquettes, we stimulate economic activity in rural and semi-urban areas, leading to increased income generation and job creation. Additionally, our commitment to inclusive growth ensures that marginalized groups, including women and youth, have access to employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. By promoting full and productive employment, we contribute to the overall economic growth and prosperity of communities, ultimately advancing the goal of decent work and sustainable economic development for all.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

My start up strongly contributes to industry innovation and infrastructure by introducing sustainable and innovative solutions to the energy sector. Through production of clean charcoal briquettes, we promote sustainable industrialization by reducing the environmental impact of traditional charcoal production. Additionally, our initiatives foster innovation by continuously improving our production processes and exploring new technologies to enhance product quality and efficiency. By investing in resilient infrastructure for the production and distribution of our products, we will contribute to building supply chains that support economic growth and development. Furthermore, our focus on inclusive growth ensures that our infrastructure investments benefit marginalized communities, promoting equitable access to energy and economic opportunities. Through these efforts, we play a vital role in advancing industry innovation, infrastructure development, and sustainable industrialization

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

My startup contributes to reducing inequalities by providing access to clean and affordable energy solutions, particularly in underserved communities. By offering smokeless charcoal briquettes at affordable prices, we bridge the gap between low-income households and cleaner cooking alternatives, thus reducing disparities in access to clean energy. Additionally, our employment opportunities and partnerships with local communities empower marginalized groups, including women and smallholder farmers, promoting economic inclusion and reducing socioeconomic inequalities. Furthermore, our initiatives prioritize inclusive growth and community engagement, ensuring that our benefits reach those who are often left behind. Through these efforts, we strive to create a more equitable society where all individuals have access to essential resources and opportunities, regardless of their socioeconomic background.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

My startup strongly contributes to sustainable cities and communities by promoting cleaner cooking solutions that reduce indoor air pollution and environmental degradation. By offering smokeless charcoal briquettes, we help create safer and healthier living environments in urban and rural areas alike. Additionally, our initiatives focus on sustainable production and distribution practices, minimizing carbon emissions and resource depletion. Through community engagement and partnerships, we raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable living practices, fostering a culture of resilience and stewardship within communities. By prioritizing inclusivity and safety in our operations, we contribute to the development of inclusive, safe, and sustainable cities and human settlements where people can thrive in harmony with nature.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

My startup strongly contributes to responsible consumption and production by promoting sustainable alternatives to traditional cooking fuels. Through the production and distribution of smokeless charcoal briquettes, we encourage the adoption of cleaner and more efficient energy sources, reducing environmental impact. We utilize waste biomass as raw material and employ eco-friendly production processes to minimize resource depletion and pollution. Additionally, we educate consumers about sustainable energy practices and the benefits of transitioning to cleaner cooking solutions. By fostering this shift towards responsible consumption and production, we advance circular economy principles, ensuring resources are used efficiently, waste is minimized, and environmental sustainability is prioritized.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

My startup strongly contributes to climate action by providing sustainable energy solutions that mitigate the environmental impact of traditional cooking fuels. By promoting the use of smokeless charcoal briquettes made from renewable biomass, we reduce deforestation and carbon emissions associated with conventional charcoal production. Additionally, our eco-friendly production processes minimize greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. Through advocacy and education, we raise awareness about the importance of transitioning to clean energy sources to combat climate change. By empowering communities to adopt environmentally friendly practices, we contribute to the global effort to reduce carbon footprints and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

While our startup primarily focuses on sustainable energy and waste management, it indirectly contributes to the Life Below Water goal. By promoting the use of cleaner cooking solutions like Mkaa Smart briquettes and reducing reliance on traditional charcoal, we help decrease deforestation and soil erosion. This, in turn, reduces runoff and sedimentation in water bodies, which can harm aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, our waste management initiatives reduce the amount of waste entering rivers and oceans, minimizing pollution and protecting marine life. Although our direct impact on marine conservation is limited, our efforts contribute to a healthier environment that supports the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. We are committed to exploring further ways to enhance our positive impact on life below water in the future.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

My startup strongly contributes to the goal of life on land by promoting sustainable land use practices and combating deforestation through the production and use of eco-friendly charcoal briquettes. By utilizing renewable biomass sources for our briquettes, we help sustainably manage forests and reduce the pressure on natural ecosystems. Additionally, our initiatives support reforestation efforts by promoting the planting of trees and the restoration of degraded lands. Through these actions, we aim to preserve biodiversity, protect terrestrial ecosystems, and contribute to the overall health and sustainability of life on land.

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

3

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Our startup currently has limited involvement in global partnerships specifically aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While we have established local collaborations with various stakeholders to support our sustainable energy solutions, we are not yet fully engaged in broader international or multi-sectoral partnerships. We recognize the importance of such collaborations in amplifying our impact and are exploring opportunities to strengthen and expand our partnerships. By doing so, we aim to contribute more effectively to the global effort towards sustainable development and revitalizing the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development in the future.

06.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

1 - Strongly Disagree

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

5

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

1 - Strongly Disagree

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

1 - Strongly Disagree

06.06 The product/service responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

1 - Strongly Disagree

06.08 Justification for my startup

Our project revolves around the introduction of an innovative solution in the energy sector: briquettes. This addresses a pressing demand in the market, aiming to replace traditional charcoal and firewood. Unlike these conventional options, our product utilizes cutting-edge technology to fulfill previously unmet needs. By incorporating innovative features and functionalities, we seek to transform the customer experience and enhance the benefits derived from our solution. This unique approach differentiates us from competitors and establishes us as pioneers in the industry. Our steadfast commitment to continuous improvement ensures that we remain at the forefront of innovation, constantly evolving to meet the dynamic needs of our customers and the ever-changing market landscape.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitors include Chabri Energy, firewood suppliers, traditional charcoal producers, and providers of gas and electricity. However, we stand out from them in several ways. While Chabri Energy produces firewood and charcoal briquettes like us, we differentiate ourselves through our focus on innovation in producing smokeless charcoal briquettes. Our briquettes offer a cleaner and more efficient alternative to traditional charcoal, addressing environmental concerns and providing a cost-effective solution. Additionally, gas and electricity, although available alternatives, are often very expensive for institutions such as prisons and schools, as well as for businesses and households. Our emphasis on affordability and accessibility makes us a preferred choice in the market. By prioritizing environmental responsibility and meeting the diverse needs of our customers, we position ourselves as leaders in the industry, offering a competitive edge over our competitors.

11.05 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

Yes, we are promoting female entrepreneurs in our community through various initiatives. We offer training and mentorship programs to young mothers and school dropouts in Mwanza, teaching them charcoal briquette-making skills in group settings for mentorship and accountability. We also sell our charcoal briquettes to older women in villages around Lake Victoria, enabling them to start their own businesses and increase their income. These efforts help empower women by providing them with the skills and resources needed to succeed