By Anastasio Gordon Ssekandi – updated at 0824 EAT on Saturday 28th December 2024.

YUMBE- In a ceremony marked by hope and inspiration, Ugandan environmentalist Lutwama Henry was honoured with the Climate Innovation Champion Award, a distinction presented by the Heal the Planet Global Organisation. The event, held at the Bidibidi Refugee Settlement, saw Dr. Michelle Corral, an internationally renowned Californian philanthropist and televangelist, bestow the award.

This prestigious recognition celebrates Lutwama’s trailblazing project, Harnessing the Replication of Biogas Technology for Community Uptake and Utilisation. Supported by the IEEE Humanitarian Technology Board, the initiative began in Matugga, Nansana Municipality, where chicken waste was transformed into low-cost biogas energy.

Lutwama’s work addresses critical issues faced by Uganda’s underserved communities, energy insecurity, waste management, and environmental degradation. The project’s scalability has seen it replicated in other regions, providing a replicable model for affordable and sustainable energy solutions across Uganda.

Lutwama, visibly moved, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition and the partnerships that enabled his work. “This award is more than just a personal achievement, it’s a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision. I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from Heal the Planet Global Organisation, and I am immensely grateful to Dr. Michelle Corral for presenting it,” he said.

He acknowledged the critical support of the IEEE Humanitarian Technology Board. “Their commitment to funding and nurturing this project was instrumental. Through their backing, we were able to pilot a sustainable energy solution that is changing lives. To Heal the Planet, I extend my deepest gratitude for recognising these efforts and amplifying our impact,” Lutwama added.

Lutwama concluded his speech with a call to action, “This award is a reminder that our work is far from over. We must continue innovating, collaborating, and expanding these solutions to ensure that every household has access to affordable, clean energy. Together, we can heal the planet.”
The Climate Innovation Champion Award celebrates those who address global environmental challenges with local solutions.

Lutwama’s success demonstrates the potential of community-driven projects to tackle issues like energy insecurity and climate change.
The ceremony held at the sidelines of the Bidibidi Refugee camp mission also served as a platform to inspire others. Attendees, ranging from community leaders to aspiring innovators, left motivated to embrace practical and sustainable solutions.

Encouraged by this recognition, Lutwama is already planning the next phase of the biogas initiative. “We have proven that this model works. The goal now is to expand it to every corner of Uganda, ensuring no community is left behind in the transition to clean energy,” he shared.
He called on policymakers and development partners to support similar grassroots innovations. “This journey has shown me the power of local solutions. By investing in these initiatives, we can create a future that is sustainable, equitable, and resilient,” he added.

The award underscores Lutwama’s role as a catalyst for change. His work exemplifies how innovation, driven by community needs, can transform lives while addressing global challenges.
As the world suffers with the effects of climate change, initiatives like Lutwama’s biogas project remind us that impactful solutions can begin with simple ideas, determination, and collaboration. Through his work, Lutwama has proven that even the smallest steps can lead to a greener, more sustainable future for all.