In a ceremony held at the Bidibidi Refugee Settlement, renowned Ugandan environmental innovator Henry Lutwama was awarded the prestigious Climate Innovation Champion Award by the Heal the Planet Global Organisation.
The accolade was presented by Dr. Michelle Corral, a celebrated philanthropist and televangelist from California, in recognition of Lutwama’s groundbreaking project, “Harnessing the Replication of Biogas Technology for Community Uptake and Utilisation.”
Supported by the IEEE Humanitarian Technology Board, Lutwama’s initiative focuses on creating low-cost biogas from chicken waste. Piloted in Matugga, Nansana Municipality, the project has provided affordable, clean energy solutions for local communities, significantly reducing reliance on firewood and other unsustainable energy sources.
The success of the project in Matugga has led to its replication in other areas, amplifying its impact across Uganda. The award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation in addressing environmental challenges.
Speaking during the award ceremony, Mr. Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin, the Executive Director of Heal the Planet, lauded Lutwama’s ingenuity and dedication to improving lives through sustainable solutions. Dr. Corral also praised Lutwama, stating, “Leaders like Lutwama inspire us to think globally and act locally. His commitment to addressing environmental challenges with practical, community-centered solutions is a testament to his remarkable vision.”
In his acceptance speech, Lutwama expressed heartfelt gratitude to both Heal the Planet Global Organisation and the IEEE Humanitarian Technology Board. He acknowledged the critical role played by the IEEE Humanitarian Technology Board in bringing his vision to life and committed to scaling this innovation to reach even more communities.
The biogas project has had far-reaching effects, providing clean, renewable energy for households while addressing environmental concerns such as waste management and deforestation. By turning chicken waste into biogas, the project has not only reduced energy costs for families but also contributed to improved sanitation and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Local leaders and residents have hailed the project as a game-changer, offering sustainable solutions to energy challenges. A resident from Matugga remarked, “We used to rely on firewood for cooking, which was not only expensive but harmful to our health and environment. This biogas project has been a blessing.”
The Climate Innovation Champion Award has further cemented Lutwama Henry’s status as a trailblazer in environmental innovation. His efforts have set a benchmark for how local solutions can address global challenges. As Uganda grapples with the effects of climate change, projects like Lutwama’s serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating how technology and community collaboration can pave the way for a more sustainable future.
For Heal the Planet Global Organisation, this recognition underscores their mission of empowering local innovators to lead in environmental sustainability. Dr. Corral’s involvement highlights the global support for such initiatives, bridging international resources with local ingenuity to combat environmental challenges effectively.
