An award nomination is a huge boost to a startup. It is not only a foundational ground for the founders, but also a quality endorsement of the product or service delivered.
The nominees for the 5th Digital Impact Awards Africa (DIAA) have been announced, with startups notching the majority nods. The annual ceremony recognizes and rewards individuals and organizations that use digital tools to change society.
This year's event is under the theme 'Include Everyone' and is scheduled for 21st September 2018 at Kampala Serena Hotel. The major categories are Digital Brand of the Year, Best Internet Service Provider, Best Financial Inclusion for the Poor, Best Use of Social Media by Bank, Technology, Utility and Government Agencies among others.
While releasing the nominations, Innocent Kawooya, the HiPipo CEO commended those that invest in the digital and financial inclusion journey across the continent. He as well asked the government of Uganda to reconsider its position on OTT / Social media Tax.
“The past few weeks have been very challenging for those passionate about digital and financial inclusion. We request it to also find the time and review the OTT tax.”
Also Read: Apps Africa opens applications for its Innovation Awards
Additionally, the awards board added a special category to promote the digitization of trade processes across Africa named Commendation for Trade Digitization. The recognition will appreciate the introduction, funding, and support towards electronic trade facilitation projects and processes.
“The winner will be decided after a thorough scrutiny of the current electronic trade facilitation projects. We shall engage various trade stakeholders before zeroing down on the overall winner," noted Innocent Kawooya.
Each year, a research topic to measure financial inclusion impact on the continent is chosen and extensively discussed. Last year's research was based on how time-saving mobile money is, later referenced in the GSMA Report on Mobile Money.