Agrosap wins PachiPanda innovation challenge
Ugandan innovators Agrosap, Lutre Plastics, and Reyre Blocks Ltd received cash prizes for environmental solutions.
MTN Uganda and WWF Uganda announced three Ugandan winners for the 2026 PachiPanda Innovation Challenge in Kampala on October 29, 2026. The competition recognized innovators developing environmental solutions with economic potential. Over 300 applications were received for the youth-focused challenge, themed “Nature Meets Innovation: Unlocking Africa’s Green Economy.”
Agrosap, led by Garvin Billy Ssemyalo, won first place and UGX 15 million for an innovation improving soil water retention to support crop growth. Lutre Plastics, led by Arther Lule and Sharma Kemigisha, received UGX 10 million as first runner-up for producing boards from recycled plastics. Reyre Blocks Ltd, led by Rhona Janet Atugonza, took third place with UGX 5 million for transforming discarded tyres into construction materials.
The three winning teams will represent Uganda at the Africa PachiPanda Challenge continental finale in South Africa in February 2027. MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge stated that the initiative shows how innovation can address environmental challenges and create jobs. WWF Uganda Executive Director Ivan Tumuhimbise added that the focus will shift to helping these innovations grow and benefit communities and nature.
Why it mattersUgandan innovators are developing and winning prizes for solutions to environmental challenges like soil moisture, plastic waste, and tyre disposal.