NextGen Builders Hackathon
The gap between idea and execution has collapsed. What took teams and years now takes you and a weekend. Time to build.
The NextGen Builders Hackathon
2026 is different. The tools have evolved. What was impossible yesterday is buildable today.
Building Has Changed
AI-powered tools have transformed how we build. Problems that once required massive teams and years of development can now be tackled in days. Explore the latest tools like Cursor, Bolt, Lovable, and more and put them to work on real challenges.
Solve the Intractable
This hackathon isn't about small projects. It's about tackling problems that were previously thought impossible: healthcare access, agricultural optimization, financial inclusion, education at scale. With today's tools, these become solvable.
Empowering Builders in Rwanda
Africa Gen AI is building the next generation of tech leaders. Whether you're a developer, designer, or someone with an idea, you'll explore new tools, connect with mentors, and have 24 hours to build something that actually matters.
Why Attend
Swipe or use arrows to explore all the benefits
Networking
Connect with industry leaders, mentors, and fellow innovators.
Inspiration
Get inspired by visionary speakers and groundbreaking ideas.
Mentorship
Learn from experienced professionals who guide your journey.
Real Problems
Tackle actual challenges facing communities across Africa.
Team Building
Form lasting connections with like-minded creators.
Recognition
Win prizes and gain exposure for your innovative solutions.
What You'll Build
Explore the key topics and technologies
Artificial Intelligence
Build intelligent systems that learn, adapt, and solve complex problems.
Generative AI
Create content, designs, and solutions using cutting-edge generative models.
Internet of Things
Connect the physical and digital worlds through smart devices and sensors.
Robotics
Design and build automated systems that transform industries.
Full-Stack Development
Create complete web applications from frontend to backend.
Data Science
Extract insights and drive decisions through data analysis.
Cloud & DevOps
Build scalable infrastructure and streamlined deployment pipelines.
How to Apply
Three simple steps to join the innovation
Open the Application
Click the register button and access our simple application form. It only takes a few minutes!
Tell Us About Yourself
Share your details and let us know if you're coming with a team or looking to form one at the venue. Either way works great!
We'll Be in Touch
Once you submit, our team will review your application and reach out with confirmation and next steps. See you at the hackathon!
Who Is This For
Anyone can create. If you have curiosity and passion for technology, this is for you.
No Matter Where You Start
This hackathon meets you where you are. Every path leads to building something real.
Got an idea but no code skills?
Perfect. AI tools now turn plain English into working products. You describe it, the tools build it. Your vision is enough.
Already know how to code?
Even better. AI doesn't replace you, it amplifies you. Ship in hours what used to take weeks. Your skills just got superpowers.
Never built anything before?
This is the best time to start. You'll learn alongside others, with mentors guiding the way. Everyone here was once a beginner.
Event Schedule
2 Days of Innovation: Friday Evening - Saturday Full Day
January 9th, 2026
Registration & Welcome
Check-in, get your badges, and grab some snacks
Opening Ceremony
Welcome address and introduction to the hackathon
Event Structure & Rules
Overview of challenges, judging criteria, and guidelines
Dinner & Refreshments
Enjoy food, drinks, and mingle with participants
Team Building Activities
Fun icebreakers and networking games
Team Formation & Registration
Form your teams and register officially
Hacking Begins! 🚀
Start building your innovative solutions
Venue Closes
Continue hacking from home or call it a night
January 10th, 2026
Doors Open & Breakfast
Morning fuel and coffee to kickstart the day
Morning Sync
Quick progress check-ins and team updates
Technical Workshops
Hands-on sessions with industry experts and mentors
Skill-Building Sessions
Learn new tools and best practices from the pros
Hacking Sprint
Focus time for development and implementation
Lunch Break
Refuel with food and network with other teams
Mentor Office Hours
Get expert guidance and technical support
Final Hacking Sprint
Polish your projects and prepare presentations
Code Freeze ⏰
Submission deadline - finalize your projects
Project Pitches
Teams present their solutions to judges
Judges Deliberation
Final evaluation and winner selection
Awards Ceremony 🏆
Announcing winners and prize distribution
Closing Remarks
Thank you and what's next for AGA community
Networking & Celebration
Food, drinks, and connect with the community
Prizes & Benefits
Grand Prize
Best overall project
Runner Up
Second place winner
Innovation Award
Most innovative solution
Company Sponsored Awards
Special recognitions from our partners
The Venue
FabLab Rwanda
44 KG 548 St, Kacyiru, Kigali
FabLab Rwanda is a world-class innovation hub and maker space in Kacyiru, Kigali. Established in 2016, it provides a platform for turning innovative ideas into products, with modern facilities for hardware and electronics development. The perfect venue for Africa's premier hackathon where ideas come to life.
Get DirectionsOrganized By Africa Gen AI
Meet the team behind the hackathon - innovators dedicated to advancing African technology.
AfricaGen AI
Building Africa's Tech Future
Frequently Asked Questions
What You'll Walk Away With
This isn't about participation certificates. It's about leaving with real assets that move your career and ideas forward.
A Working Product
Not a mockup. Not a slide deck. An actual product that solves a real problem, built with AI-powered tools in 24 hours.
Pitch-Ready Demo
Walk out with a polished demo you can show investors, employers, or collaborators. Your proof that you can ship.
Your Builder Network
The people you meet here become your co-founders, collaborators, and friends. Connections that last beyond the weekend.
Ready to Build the Future?
Join hundreds of innovators for 24 hours of creativity, collaboration, and coding. Spots are limited - register now!
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