KAMPALA, Wednesday 12th March, 2025 –
National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has launched the second edition of the National Environment Sustainability Awards. The awards aim to recognize and celebrate outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability in Uganda.
The initiative will honour individuals, organisations, and communities that have demonstrated exceptional
commitment to protecting and preserving the environment.
Section 5 of the National Environment Act, Cap 181, mandates NEMA to ensure, among other things, that the principles of environment management are observed, taking into account the finite nature of non-renewable resources and the productivity of the available renewable resources. Such principles of environmental management
include; promoting green growth in environmental planning and circular economy by maximizing production efficiency to conserve the utilisation of environment and natural resources.
Dr Barirega Akankwasah the Executive director NEMA says the second edition of the National Environment Sustainability Awards is aimed at endorsing, and recognizing existing best environmental practices for improved resource productivity and reduced environmental pollution.
It is envisaged that recognizing these initiatives will provide incentives for continued up-scaling and replication of such initiatives in other sectors across the country. It would also support and promote applied research on best environmental practices for improved resource productivity and reduced environmental pollution.
The second edition of the awards follows the inaugural National Environment Sustainability Awards, which was a well-attended event held on 28th June, 2024, at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala. Awards were given in five sectors: Manufacturing, Waste Management, Petroleum, Non-state Actors, Lead Agencies, and Media Groups.
A total of 20 awardees each walked away with an accolade, while all nominees received certificates of recognition. The award ceremony attracted over 300 guests, including dignitaries from government ministries, departments, media houses, company representatives, NEMA staff, and other invited guests.
The categories under consideration include:
Circularity: demonstrating true circular economy principles through proactive and innovative practices that go beyond waste reduction and recycling.
Resource Efficiency: adoption of green technologies to optimise the use of water, energy, and materials while reducing waste generation.
Innovation: supporting research and adoption of new technologies in environmental sustainability, including circular economy models and non-toxic solutions.
Cross-Cutting issues: incorporating environmental, social, and governance principles, top management commitment to sustainability, and corporate social responsibility.
Application Process
Nominated enterprises from selected sectors will be invited to submit applications for a detailed evaluation. The application process will be open from 24th March to end of April 2025.
The winners’ selection will be based on:
A detailed review of existing compliance audit reports.
A comprehensive technical analysis of submitted applications from nominated
enterprises.
A verification process to confirm compliance and implementation of sustainability initiatives.
We encourage enterprises, institutions, and individuals to participate actively in this prestigious initiative.
Notes to the Editor
The objectives of the 2025 NESA Awards are:
Recognising Excellence – Acknowledging and rewarding organizations and individuals implementing innovative and impactful environmental initiatives.
Raising Awareness – Encouraging the integration of sustainability in development projects and programmes to influence decision-making processes.
Encouraging Innovation – Showcasing successful sustainability strategies to inspire widespread adoption of best practices.
Fostering Collaboration – Promoting partnerships among government agencies, private sector actors, civil society, and communities in environmental sustainability initiatives.
Promoting Compliance – Encouraging adherence to environmental regulations and standards by highlighting exemplary organizations and individuals.
Networking – Providing a platform for stakeholders to connect and share knowledge.