The popular Tanzanian TV program Kijana Leo has once again secured top honours at the 2024 Excellence in Journalism Awards Tanzania (EJAT), winning in the highly competitive Disability Reporting category for the second consecutive year.
This year’s recognition was awarded for Episode 8, which highlighted the groundbreaking work of Kyaro Assistive Tech, a social enterprise that provides innovative, custom-made assistive devices to people with disabilities across Africa.
Kyaro Assistive Tech, founded by Colman Ndetembea, is transforming lives by addressing the critical shortage of affordable mobility solutions. Their work not only empowers individuals with disabilities but also generates employment for young people in Tanzania. The enterprise’s focus on tailored solutions makes them a leader in addressing the unique challenges faced by those with disabilities on the continent.
EJAT 2024 was marked by intense competition, with 1,135 entries submitted by journalists from both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
Out of these, 72 finalists were selected after rigorous evaluation by a panel of judges. The finalists represented various media platforms, including television (14), online platforms (13), radio (20), and print media (25). Encouraging gender representation was also seen, with 45 men (62.5%) and 27 women (37.5%) making it to the final round.
The award ceremony followed a structured selection process, where winners for first, second, and third places in different categories were announced. An overall winner was chosen based on the jury’s criteria, and Kijana Leo stood out for its impactful storytelling on disability advocacy.
The award-winning episode of Kijana Leo offers a deep dive into Kyaro Assistive Tech’s inspiring journey.
Founded in 2018, Kyaro’s story began when Colman, an engineer, teamed up with Sudi, an occupational therapist from Arusha, and Eamon through the Twende Centre for Social Innovation. Together, they embarked on a mission to design and produce custom-made, multipurpose wheelchairs tailored to the needs of Tanzanians with disabilities.
Over the years, Kyaro Assistive Tech has grown significantly, thanks to partnerships with key institutions like the Small Industries Development Organization (SIDO), the Twende Innovation Centre, and financial backing from the Segal Family Foundation. Today, the enterprise manufactures between 30 to 40 assistive devices each month, providing critical mobility solutions to those in need and creating job opportunities for Tanzanians.
One of the standout stories featured in the episode is that of Aiden, a young boy whose mobility challenges prevented him from attending school.
Thanks to Kyaro’s wheelchair, Aiden was able to return to his education, showcasing the profound impact that accessible technology can have on individuals and their families. Another notable story comes from Kibaoni Primary School in Mbeya, where Kyaro’s innovations have fostered an inclusive learning environment for students of all abilities.
Kijana Leo, produced in partnership with Azam Media and the Prime Minister’s Office, is now in its second season and continues to highlight the work of young innovators making a difference in their communities. The program has become one of Azam Media’s most-watched series, earning widespread acclaim for its commitment to spotlighting local heroes and inspiring audiences across Tanzania.
The show’s ongoing success at EJAT reflects its growing influence in shaping conversations around social issues, particularly in the area of disability advocacy. Through its platform, Kijana Leo is not only raising awareness but also celebrating the efforts of innovators like Kyaro Assistive Tech, who are making a tangible difference in the lives of people with disabilities.
Looking ahead, Kyaro Assistive Tech is focused on scaling its impact even further. The company plans to expand its infrastructure, develop local talent, and increase its production capacity to meet the growing demand for assistive devices both in Tanzania and across the region.
Kyaro’s ultimate goal is to establish a sustainable, Africa-driven model for innovation that ensures every individual—regardless of ability—has the opportunity to thrive.
The triumph of Kijana Leo at EJAT 2024 is a testament to the power of impactful storytelling and its ability to shine a light on issues that matter. With its continued focus on innovation, inclusion, and social change, the program is well-positioned to keep inspiring and informing the nation.
To learn more about Kyaro Assistive Tech’s incredible work, follow the story on our YouTube channel at the Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete Foundation.
