We successfully expanded the successful Social Impact Award conducted in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) into a combined East Africa Social Impact Award for all the countries of the East African Community (Uganda, DRC, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi and South Sudan) whereby youth were encouraged to submit ideas for social impact or very early stage impactful enterprises. Finalist from an English speaking cluster and finalists from a French speaking cluster were selected by a jury of experts and received the support needed to bring their ideas into fruition and have the impact they wish to see as empowered social entrepreneurs. An intense bootcamp happened in Kampala (Uganda), and another one in Bukavu (DRC) with all finalists and final pitch event, where the winners were selected by the jury.
Congratulations to all winners!
Whisp Health (Uganda)
Whisp Health provides automated voice call reminders for patients, ensuring they take their medication and attend doctor appointments on time. Their innovative system is tailored to hospitals and communicates in patients’ preferred languages, promoting health compliance and convenience.
Happy Cheeks (Uganda)
Happy Cheeks creates sustainable, eco-friendly diapers made from maize straws and organic cotton. These diapers reduce waste and promote healthier, environmentally-conscious baby care practices in Uganda.
Smile Hair Extensions (Uganda)
Smile Hair Extensions produces biodegradable, eco-friendly hair extensions from banana fibers. Their natural alternative to synthetic extensions reduces soil pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, while empowering communities through sustainable practices.
Taxel (Burundi)
Taxel builds electric motor-tricycles using locally available materials to tackle fuel shortages and high transportation costs in Burundi. Their solution provides sustainable and efficient mobility while contributing to a cleaner environment.
Fourrage Hydroponique (Burundi)
Fourrage Hydroponique grows clean, nutritious green fodder for livestock using hydroponic technology without soil. This year-round innovation supports farmers, boosts livestock productivity, and combats malnutrition in Burundi.
Fuel for Kivu Innovation (Democratic Republic of Congo)
Fuel for Kivu Innovation combats pollution by recycling plastic waste into fuel for cars and motor vehicles. Their solution addresses waste management challenges while creating a sustainable energy source.
The winners will join the winners from Armenia, Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, India, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Türkiye, and Ukraine at a global summit happening in Germany in the coming days, organized by Social Impact Award International.