Our Mission
Upanzi Network is dedicated to pioneering innovative research and technology solutions that address the unique challenges faced by communities in Africa.
Our work spans multiple disciplines, focusing on digital rights, privacy, security, and responsible technology deployment. The name "Upanzi" — which means "planting" in Swahili — reflects our commitment to nurturing ideas that grow into impactful solutions.
We believe in the power of technology to transform lives when developed ethically and inclusively, ensuring that innovation serves humanity's greatest needs.
Our Core Values
Innovation
Creative approaches to complex challengesInclusivity
Solutions that benefit diverse communitiesIntegrity
Ethical standards in research and developmentImpact
Measurable positive outcomes
Our History
Upanzi Network was established in 2022 by a group of researchers, technologists, and policy experts who recognized the need for context-specific technology solutions in Africa. What began as a small collaborative initiative has grown into a dynamic research lab with partners across the continent and beyond.
Over the years, we've expanded our focus areas while maintaining our core commitment to ethical technology development. Our projects have influenced policy, empowered organizations, and improved digital safety for thousands of users.
20+
Projects Completed
15
Partner Organizations
8
Countries
Our Approach
At Upanzi Network, we employ a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to research and innovation. We believe that the most effective solutions emerge when diverse perspectives come together around a common goal.
Our work is guided by these principles:
- Context-Sensitivity: We design for the specific environments where our solutions will be implemented
- Participatory Design: We involve end-users and stakeholders throughout the development process
- Evidence-Based: We ground our innovations in rigorous research and data
- Open Knowledge: We share our findings and tools to benefit the wider community
