MTN Uganda, in partnership with WWF Uganda, has launched the second season of PachiPanda, an initiative supporting young Ugandans developing technology-driven solutions to environmental challenges.
The programme, themed “Nature Meets Innovation: Unlocking Africa’s Green Economy,” targets innovators aged 18 to 35 with practical and scalable solutions that can advance environmental conservation while creating businesses, jobs and sustainable livelihoods.
The initiative builds on the first season, which attracted 2,484 applications and produced solutions that have gone on to demonstrate measurable impact. Hannington’s Kampala Buzz Line, for example, has grown into a conservation-focused enterprise that creates jobs, generates income and has attracted additional funding. Another participant, Ruth, has established new partnerships and contributed to the movement of 217 tonnes of perishable food.
MTN Uganda General Manager for Corporate Services Enid Edroma said PachiPanda goes beyond financial rewards, with coaching, exposure, confidence-building and personal development playing a central role in helping young innovators strengthen and scale their solutions.
For the second season, the programme is expanding nationwide, reaching innovators across regions including Karamoja, Northern Uganda, Rwenzori and Central Uganda. Applicants are expected to have a prototype, proof of concept or an existing solution with potential for further development and scale.
The top three Ugandan innovators will receive UGX 15 million, UGX 10 million and UGX 5 million respectively. The overall Ugandan winner will also represent the country at the PachiPanda Grand Finale in South Africa.
MTN Uganda said the initiative reflects its commitment, together with WWF Uganda, to empowering young people to transform environmental challenges into viable businesses, employment opportunities and solutions that contribute to a greener economy.
