African technology builders, developers, engineering students, AI enthusiasts, robotics innovators, and hardware creators are invited to take part in the Sandbox Africa Hackathon 2026. This competition challenges participants to move beyond pure ideas and deliver working prototypes that solve real-world problems across software, artificial intelligence, robotics, embedded systems, and hardware.
The hackathon emphasises practical technology development. Participants are expected to build, test, and demonstrate functional solutions that showcase technical skill, creativity, and relevance to African contexts. It serves as a platform to refine existing prototypes, experiment with new approaches, collaborate with other builders, and gain visibility within the broader African technology ecosystem.
Prize Pool
A total of ₦10 million in cash prizes is available for the top three projects:
- 1st Place — ₦5,000,000
- 2nd Place — ₦3,000,000
- 3rd Place — ₦2,000,000
In addition to the cash awards, participants can access industry mentorship, technical networking opportunities, collaboration with peers, project showcases, and potential pathways to further develop promising solutions.
Who Should Participate
The hackathon is open to individuals and teams actively building or experimenting with technology. Suitable participants include:
– Software developers
- Engineering students
- AI and machine-learning practitioners
- Robotics builders
- Hardware innovators
- Embedded systems developers
- Technical founders and technology entrepreneurs
- Innovators focused on practical, real-world problem-solving
Those who already have a prototype or early-stage project can use the event to test, improve, and present their work. The broad technical scope allows people from different backgrounds to compete by delivering tangible results rather than relying solely on concepts or academic credentials.
Focus Areas
Projects are welcomed across several domains:
Software Development
Applications, platforms, and digital tools designed to address practical challenges.
Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
Solutions involving AI, machine learning, automation, robotics, and related technologies.
Hardware & Embedded Systems
Innovations using microcontrollers, sensors, electronics, automation, and connected devices.
This range ensures that participants with diverse technical strengths can contribute meaningful, working solutions.
What Participants Stand to Gain
Beyond the prize money, the hackathon offers:
- Direct industry mentorship
- Networking with other technology builders and professionals
- Collaboration opportunities
- Exposure within the African tech ecosystem
- A chance to publicly showcase working projects
- Possible routes to further develop and scale promising ideas
For students and early-career developers, it provides a concrete way to demonstrate practical skills through a functional prototype.
How to Apply
Registration is online. Interested and qualified candidates should apply through the official Link provided 👉 Here
The Sandbox Africa Hackathon 2026 prioritises builders who can turn ideas into working technology. If you are developing solutions that address real challenges, this is an opportunity to compete for significant funding, gain mentorship, expand your network, and put your work in front of the wider ecosystem. Apply early and start preparing your prototype.
