The coronavirus pandemic turned lives upside down everywhere, forcing habit change in almost every sector. It also accelerated digitalization and innovation, with local entrepreneurs developing solutions to address their compatriots’ pain points.

OnilBox is a Tanzanian startup that helps users find nearby training studios, gyms, etc, and book fitness activities and events. It was launched by Natalino Mwenda, in 2021, during the coronavirus pandemic to help fitness enthusiasts find gyms and similar facilities to work out in uncrowded locations. 

“The concept originated amid COVID-19 from a garage CrossFit gym that users wanted to access to escape crowds. Users called to make bookings and as the calls continued to increase, OnilBox built an app that allowed users to book a room instead of calling. One room expanded to four, gyms joined the network, and activities also joined the network, allowing OnilBox to offer the largest fitness experience in Tanzania and Zanzibar,” Natalino told Disrupt Africa. 

Through its Android and iOS apps, users can search available locations and activities to book their sessions. They can filter the desired results by the number of people and desired session duration. To diversify its offer, the startup introduced smart gyms powered by IoT. 

Unlike traditional gyms that require monthly subscriptions, OnilBox operates a Pay-as-You-Go model. Its timer counts down the session duration and even unregistered users can use its services.  Currently, the startup claims over 100 users and 2,000 workout sessions and locations booked. It plans to expand to other countries including Kenya, Mauritius, South Africa, and Rwanda. 

Adoni Conrad Quenum