CEDAT Students Win Top Award at Africa Electricity Symposium

Two students from Makerere University’s College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) have clinched the coveted Best Young Author Award at the 2025 Africa Electricity Symposium, a major continental event held at Méstil Hotel & Residences in Kampala.

Reagan Kyomuhendo Muhimbo and Shem Christopher Luwandaga were honoured for their research paper titled “Understanding the Underutilisation of Electric Pressure Cookers in Urban Uganda: Barriers, Motivators, and Policy Recommendations.” Their paper was presented under the symposium’s sub-theme focused on decentralised and off-grid energy solutions.

The Africa Electricity Symposium, organised by the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA), brought together energy researchers, policymakers, industry players, and innovators under the theme: “Powering Africa: Smart, Innovation, and Energy Sustainability for Growth.”

Muhimbo and Luwandaga’s research delves into the socio-economic and behavioural dynamics behind the slow uptake of electric pressure cookers (EPCs) in Uganda’s urban areas, despite their cost-efficiency and environmental benefits. The paper identifies key barriers and motivators influencing adoption, and proposes policy reforms to accelerate the transition toward cleaner cooking technologies.

The award not only highlights the emerging leadership of youth in energy research but also reflects CEDAT’s growing influence in sustainable energy innovation. Notably, Luwandaga, a former student and current research assistant on an ongoing energy project at CEDAT, continues to contribute meaningfully to the academic and policy landscape.

Their work is expected to inform both national and regional discussions on clean cooking strategies—an area critical to achieving sustainable development and energy transition goals in Africa.