Techbytes: UNZA students’ Pokelela errand App set to scale, compete in Zambia’s last mile business

A group of University of Zambia (UNZA) students has developed a digital platform aimed at simplifying access to delivery and errand services while opening new income streams for young people.

The platform, known as Pokelela, was conceived in 2022 and began operating during the first semester of 2023. Since then, it has transformed from a small student-led idea into a structured enterprise employing eight people.

Immanuel Njovu, the founder and chief executive officer, said the concept emerged from the daily challenges students face in getting simple tasks done on time.

Read more: Stanbic Bank’s Chief Executive, Mwindwa Siakalima has described the planned Artificial Intelligence Hub at the University of Zambia as a forward-thinking initiative that will drive productivity, competitiveness, and prepare young people for the future of work in a technology-driven economy.

“We noticed that people needed help with errands that were easy but took too much of their day. Pokelela was created to fill that gap and give young people a chance to earn something in the process,” he said.

The business now employs three school leavers who serve as field agents, four part-time students and a full-time customer service representative who manages client requests.

Njovu said the platform is helping reduce youth unemployment by offering flexible roles that allow students to balance work with their academic schedules.

“Our approach gives young people a way to make money while still focusing on their studies. It allows them to use their time and skills more productively,” he said.

What started as a basic grocery-and-food delivery service has expanded into a full errand-running platform. Pokelela now handles tasks such as making payments, supporting school-related processes, shopping for items and arranging deliveries in various parts of the community.

Njovu said the app connects clients to agents who perform tasks in real time.

“Once a request comes in, it’s assigned almost immediately. The agent confirms the details with the client and gets the job done. We built the system to be fast, responsive and trustworthy,” he said.

The business has grown steadily within the UNZA community, driven largely by word-of-mouth recommendations. It currently processes an average of 20 requests each day, ranging from simple errands to more complex tasks.

Njovu said the platform is now transitioning from a campus-based service to one focused on the broader community.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.