The Bart Nnaji Foundation has launched a nationwide engineering innovation competition aimed at transforming the traditional palm wine harvesting process through safer and more efficient technology.
The initiative, titled the Bart Nnaji Engineering Innovation Competition 2026, is inviting engineers, inventors, students, innovators, and practical problem-solvers across Nigeria to develop a mechanical solution that can reduce the dangers associated with climbing palm trees for wine tapping.
Organizers announced that the competition carries a grand prize of ₦10 million and forms part of activities commemorating Prof. Bart Nnaji’s 70th birthday celebration.
Apply HERE FOR Bart Nnaji Foundation ₦10 Million Engineering Challenge
Tackling a Longstanding Industry Problem
Palm wine remains one of Nigeria’s most culturally significant and commercially valuable local beverages.
However, the traditional harvesting method still relies heavily on manual tree climbing, exposing tappers to serious safety risks and physical strain.
According to the foundation, the aging population of experienced palm wine tappers and the declining interest among younger generations have created an urgent need for safer and more sustainable alternatives.
The competition is therefore designed to encourage the creation of practical engineering solutions capable of modernizing the industry while preserving its economic and cultural value.
Two Innovation Categories Announced
Participants are expected to design and fabricate a “Safe Mechanical Palm Wine Harvesting System” under one of two solution tracks.
The first category focuses on a Mechanical Human Lift — a system that can safely elevate an operator while ensuring maximum stability and user protection.
The second category is a Ground-Operated Automated System, which aims to eliminate the need for climbing entirely through remote or mechanically controlled harvesting technology.
Key Technical Requirements
The foundation stated that all proposed solutions must demonstrate:
- Strong safety mechanisms and structural reliability
- Off-grid power capability through mechanical, hydraulic, or battery systems
- Lightweight and portable construction suitable for rural terrain
- Ability to reach mature palm tree heights
- Cost-effectiveness for local adoption
- Extensive use of locally sourced materials and fabricated components
Organizers added that commercial viability and ease of operation will play a major role during evaluation.
Competition Timeline
Applications for the competition opened on April 27 and will close on May 27, 2026.
After the submission phase, entries will undergo technical review and collation before the top three finalists are announced on June 11.
Finalists will participate in a live pitch defense scheduled for June 18 in Aba or Enugu, while prototype development and the final winner announcement are expected to take place between July and October 2026.
Apply HERE FOR Bart Nnaji Foundation ₦10 Million Engineering Challenge
Encouraging Local Innovation
The foundation described the challenge as more than just a competition, noting that it represents an opportunity to apply engineering and local innovation to solve real-life problems affecting rural industries and livelihoods.
By focusing on affordability, portability, and local manufacturing, the organizers hope the winning solutions can eventually be deployed at scale across palm wine-producing communities in Nigeria and beyond.
Interested applicants have been encouraged to submit their entries through the official competition portal before the deadline.
