Six young innovators are in line to win million of francs in the 2016 Tigo Digital Changemakers competition. The six finalists were chosen from 101 applicants following a rigorous vetting process by Tigo and Reach for Change, its partner in the competition, as well as external experts, the telecom firm said in a statement.

Four winners of the competition will be announced on December 9 and will each receive a cash prize of Rwf7.5 million, as well as access Reach for Change incubator programme, which includes business training, and access to a global network of other social entrepreneurs, Tigo deputy general manager, Chantal Umutoni Kagame, said.

"We recognise the potential of technology to solve development challenges. So, we are looking for tech entrepreneurs who use digital tools and technology to improve the lives of Rwandans in a meaningful way. At Tigo we are committed to providing the opportunity for these entrepreneurs to be recognised and supported,” Kagame added.

The telecom and Reach for Change, a non-profit organisation, launched the fifth edition of the Tigo Digital Changemakers competition in October. The contest aims at identifying and supporting four social entrepreneurs who utilise digital technology to improve society and positively impact future generations.

Finalists include Erick Joseph, Alphonse Habyarimana, Origene Igiraneza, Julien Daniel Mitali, Emile Babu, and Auxilia Ndamage. The six contestants are pitching apps from, mainly, the financial sector and education.