Neem Company Ltd has emerged among the winners of this year’s Hanga Pitch Fest, securing the second place with a 20,000,000 Rwf prize for its groundbreaking health-tech solution, the “Smart Insole designed to prevent diabetic foot complications.”
Neem Company Ltd ‘s innovation is one of the innovations which were incubated at the African Centre of Excellence in Internet of Things (ACEIoT)’ s AI and IoT Incubation Hub
The innovation stands out as a transformative tool for diabetic patients, offering early detection of warning signs that can help prevent severe medical outcomes, including infections and amputations.
The smart insole is designed to blend effortlessly into users’ daily routines, giving patients a practical and accessible way to monitor foot health. By alerting them to early indicators of complications, the solution aims to reduce hospitalizations, improve quality of life, and ease the burden on health systems.

Driving innovation for improved diabetic care

Winning at Hanga Pitch Fest will significantly advance Neem Company’s mission. The grant will directly support the company’s work in several key areas, including developing and refining the smart insole to enhance comfort, durability, and readiness for everyday use; enhancements to the digital platform, strengthening real-time alert systems and improving user experience for patients and clinicians among others.
Speaking about the milestone, Prisca Nikuze, the co-founder of Neem Company Ltd, expressed gratitude and optimism about the impact of the award:
“The Hanga award would not only accelerate the development of the smart insole but also strengthen Neem Company Ltd’s capacity to deliver a meaningful, lasting impact in diabetic care.”

A journey nurtured by local innovation ecosystems

Prisca Nikuze is one of the innovators whose innovations were incubated at the African Centre of Excellence in Internet of Things (ACEIoT)’s AI and IoT Incubation Hub, where her solution received mentorship, technical guidance and financial support.
The AI and IoT Incubation Hub got funding from The Research and Innovation Systems for Africa (RISA) Fund.
She acknowledged the hub’s contribution, adding, “We are sincerely grateful for the ongoing mentorship and support we receive from ACEIoT throughout our journey. Your guidance has played an important role in shaping our progress.”
Neem Company’s victory marks not only a major achievement for the startup but also a significant step toward advancing digital health solutions in Rwanda and beyond.

About Hanga Pitch Fest

Hanga Pitch Fest is Rwanda’s flagship technology and innovation festival, organized by the Government of Rwanda to spotlight homegrown talent and support emerging startups. The event brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and innovation enthusiasts from across the continent. It features a competitive pitching stage for top finalists, a showcase of innovative products, masterclasses, and live entertainment—making it a dynamic platform for driving tech-enabled solutions for Rwanda and Africa.