Two young Ugandan scientists, Sandra Namboozo (26) and Samuel Muyita (27), have been named among the top 10 finalists for the prestigious 2025 Young Inventors Prize awarded by the European Patent Office (EPO).
Their groundbreaking innovation — a plant-based, biodegradable sachet that extends the shelf life of fresh fruit by up to 30 days — is gaining international recognition for its impact on food preservation, climate action, and sustainable agriculture.
Namboozo and Muyita, co-founders of Karpolax, developed the sachet as a response to the widespread post-harvest losses that smallholder farmers in Uganda face. Both innovators, graduates of Makerere University and raised in farming families, witnessed firsthand the economic and emotional toll of spoiled produce that never made it to the market.
Their innovation has earned praise for addressing not just a local agricultural challenge, but a global crisis. According to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), food loss and waste account for 8–10% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) further estimates that up to 40% of food produced globally never reaches consumers. Karpolax’s sachets offer a timely solution by preserving produce such as bananas, apples, and oranges, with ongoing trials for pineapples, berries, and capsicum.
Namboozo, who also works with the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), has been a vocal advocate for youth-led innovation in climate and sustainability. “We wanted to create a solution that was not only affordable but also environmentally friendly. Our sachets are made entirely from biodegradable, plant-based materials,” she said.
Former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi took to social media to celebrate the duo, stating: “Proud moment for Uganda! Congratulations to Sandra Namboozo and Samuel Muyita… Your innovation is a triumph of creativity and purpose. To all young Ugandans: let this be your inspiration — dream big, think boldly, and be the solution our world needs.”
The winners of the 2025 Young Inventors Prize will be announced on June 18 during a live ceremony streamed from Iceland. Public voting is also open, with supporters encouraged to cast their votes for Sandra and Samuel’s life-changing innovation.