0800-144-444 (Toll free)
NEMA spotlighted Uganda’s champions of sustainability through the third edition of the National Environment Sustainability Awards, held on Friday, 19th June 2026 under the theme “Innovation for Climate Resilience”. From circular economy innovation to green schools, NEMA honoured individuals and organisations driving climate-smart agriculture, biodiversity conservation, environmental journalism, and more.
This annual ceremony is designed to celebrate innovation, resilience, and leadership in tackling environmental challenges across the country. Emceed by Maurice Mugisha and Siima Sabiti, the event was graced by Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, the Minister for Water and Environment, as the Chief Guest. The minister emphasised the need for stronger protection of wetlands and other fragile ecosystems. He also called for collective responsibility in preserving the environment for future generations.
The event commenced with a cocktail reception at 5:00p.m, providing an engaging networking opportunity for guests, and concluded with a dinner at about 11:00p.m. Attendance was robust, with close to 300 guests, including high-ranking government officials, private sector executives, development partners, academia, media, civil society, and individuals involved in environmental innovation and advocacy.
NEMA Executive Director Dr. Barirega Akankwasah, gave the opening remarks, and reiterated theAuthority’s commitment to promoting environmental sustainability. He also recognised the efforts of various stakeholders whose initiatives continue to contribute to Uganda’s green growth agenda.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego, Governor of the Bank of Uganda, who highlighted the economic implications of climate change and underscored the importance of investing in climate resilience as a prerequisite for sustainable economic growth and prosperity.
Final Nominations and Winners
Key Environmental Initiatives and Programs include:
Key Highlights
Sponsors and Partners
The event was made possible through support from esteemed sponsors that included: Stanbic Bank Uganda, Bank of Uganda, EACOP, Uganda Breweries Limited, National Water & Sewerage Corporation, Rosebud, Pepsi and Next Media. Their involvement demonstrated corporate commitment to sustainable development and environmental responsibility.
Achievements
Conclusion
The National Environment Sustainability Awards 2026 provided an important platform for acknowledging and celebrating efforts aimed at protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development. The event highlighted the critical role of innovation and partnerships in building climate resilience and safeguarding natural resources for present and future generations. Overall, the awards served as a source of inspiration and motivation for individuals and organisations to continue pursuing environmentally sustainable practices.
By Tony Achidria Kampala, Uganda – Uganda Martyrs University (UMU), in partnership with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and …
NEMA spotlighted Uganda’s champions of sustainability through the third edition of the National Environment Sustainability Awards, held on Friday, …
The Government of Uganda, through the Office of the Prime Minister and NEMA, is rolling out National Cleaning Days, a powerful initiative to unite …
On June 11, 2026 NEMA conducted a consultative meeting to discuss Guidelines, Action Plan and National Strategy for Management of Chemicals in …
NEMA through its Division of Chemical Safety, Radiation and Pollution Prevention has instituted a technical committee for management of chemicals in…
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has intensified restoration efforts by planting over 15,000 indigenous tree species in …