Ugandan entrepreneurs on internship in Kalmthout

Through the organisation "Entrepreneurs for Entrepreneurs (Ondernemers Voor Ondernemers OVO)", which strives for sustainable cooperation with the South, we have been in contact with Ugandan start-up Innovex since 2019. As a spin-off of Makarere University in Kampala, they have developed hardware and software to remotely monitor solar energy systems (solar systems).

Gaining knowledge in the region of Antwerp

Innovex (remote monitoring solar systems) asked us to help and guide them in developing hardware and software and starting up their SMD production. During their internship, we supported them by answering questions, providing feedback on machine choices and reviewing procedures.

"I believe in their story"

Gert D'Handschotter, Managing Director of E.D.&A., is very positive about the two engineers' internship. "We look back on it with a very good feeling. They are two very motivated people who want to make sure their company is a success. I believe in their story. At least they have the drive, intelligence and dynamism for it. They asked a lot of questions and talked to numerous people, both in our R&D department and in production. They were overwhelmed by our attention to detail and quality.

Making a contribution

Through this help, we are doing our (limited) bit to educate the people locally. This will lead to more jobs and eventually raise their standard of living (about 20 employees are already working there). This will hopefully also motivate other people to start businesses in Uganda so that at some point no more help from the West will be needed. Currently, they are the only company in Uganda that produces locally and sells beyond Africa.