TEXPO STEAMON 25 recently launched RhythmKeepers, a hackathon, challenging students to create digital preservation tools for Africa’s musical heritage, whilst UNESCO and the African Union develop a policy guidance for the preservation of cultural heritage.

The competition uses motion capture and AI to convert traditional playing techniques into teachable formats.

The RhythmKeepers challenge tasks students with designing Raspberry Pi-based systems that capture hand, finger, and instrument motions while playing traditional instruments. The technology will translate these motions into readable sheet music or tablature, creating learning materials accessible to students, musicians, and enthusiasts worldwide.

The challenge addresses urgent concerns raised by UNESCO about intangible cultural heritage loss, particularly as elderly musicians pass away without transferring their knowledge to younger generations. From the gentle pluck of the mbira to the thunderous resonance of the djembe, African music represents a living archive of identity, memory, and spirit that risks disappearing without proper preservation tools.

Students will work with Raspberry Pi 4/Pico, motion sensors like MPU6050 or BNO055, camera tracking with OpenCV, and audio-movement synchronization tools. The system will support multiple instruments including mbira, marimba, ngoma, djembe, and balafon, creating comprehensive archives that auto-tag recordings by instrument, region, and artist.

Bonus challenges will also include enabling real-time collaboration between remote musicians across borders, visualizing rhythm patterns across different regions, and creating accessible learning platforms that work offline.

The challenge connects to global digitization efforts for traditional arts while addressing the specific needs of African cultural preservation. Solutions will be designed for use in music schools, cultural centers, and community education programs across the continent.

Students from tertiary institutions across Zimbabwe can participate in the September 22-26 hackathon at Harare Institute of Technology Innovation Hub. The competition offers mentorship from cultural preservation experts and traditional musicians, alongside technical support.

Winners will receive prizes including access to career development opportunities and registration is open to all tertiary students.

For more information and registration details, visit www.texpoafrica.com or contact hello@texpoafrica.com