Uganda’s commitment to environmental sustainability took centre stage on June 27 as the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) hosted the Second Edition of the National Environment Sustainability Awards at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala.
The prestigious event, held under the theme “Fostering Cleaner Production to Advance Sustainable Development in Uganda,” recognised trailblazers in environmental stewardship across various sectors, including finance, manufacturing, and community-led initiatives.
Among the top honorees was Stanbic Bank Uganda, which clinched the Sustainability Award in the Financial Institutions Category for its pioneering efforts in integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards across its operations.
Receiving the award on behalf of the bank, Catherine Adengo, Head of Sustainability, and Diana Ondoga, Head of Corporate Social Investment (CSI), reaffirmed Stanbic’s dedication to building a cleaner, greener future for Uganda.
“Environmental sustainability is not just an add-on; it is a core part of our sustainability agenda rooted in our purpose — ‘Uganda is our home, we drive her growth,’” said Adengo. “As pioneers in green finance, we are committed to making sustainability accessible and impactful, especially for women, youth, and farmers.”
In 2024 alone, Stanbic Bank disbursed over UGX 62 billion in green financing to support clean energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-friendly technologies — efforts that align closely with Uganda’s climate targets under its National Development Plans.
Ondoga also highlighted the bank’s achievements in plastic recycling, citing a partnership with Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda and Plastics Recycling Industries in Nakawa, which has resulted in the recycling of over 97.86% of plastic waste generated from the bank’s operations — a total of 9,234.64 kilograms.
Additionally, the bank is reducing its carbon footprint by digitising operations and promoting paperless transactions via platforms like FlexiPay, Stanbic Digital Banking, and USSD, and recycling used paper into napkins and shopping bags in partnership with Africa Paper Limited.
In the Manufacturing Sector, Sugar Corporation of Uganda Limited (SCOUL) received the award for Exceptional Circular Waste Management, particularly within the sugar processing industry. The award was presented by representatives from GIZ Uganda, underscoring the importance of international partnerships in achieving Uganda’s sustainability goals.
Dr. Barirega Akankwasa, Executive Director of NEMA, commended the winners and all nominees for complying with environmental laws and regulations. He also announced the creation of the NEMA Compliance Assistance Unit, which will offer free guidance to developers seeking to meet environmental standards.
“Compliance with ESG standards is not only a regulatory requirement but also a key metric for investors globally,” said Dr. Barirega. “Through these awards, we hope to inspire broader adoption of sustainable practices that benefit both the economy and the environment.”
Backed by sponsors including Bank of Uganda, National Water and Sewerage Corporation, Stanbic Bank, Uganda Breweries, and EnviroServ, the awards continue to grow in stature as Uganda strengthens its transition toward a sustainable future.
The National Environment Sustainability Awards, first launched under the National Environment Act (Cap 181), are part of a broader initiative by NEMA to recognise, scale, and replicate best environmental practices across sectors — from corporations and government agencies to communities and individuals. A full list of winners is expected to be released in the coming days.
