Sanitation Warriors get their first spotlight in historic WASH Awards

In a bold step toward improving public health and development outcomes, the Uganda Water and Sanitation Network (UWASNET), in partnership with key government ministries and development partners, has launched the first-ever WASH Impact and Influence Awards.

The awards aim to shine a spotlight on the individuals, organizations, and innovations making significant strides in providing clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services across Uganda.

The announcement was made during a press briefing in Kampala on May 29, 2025. The awards come at a time when over 30 million Ugandans still lack access to safe sanitation, and many others face persistent challenges around clean water access and hygiene services.

These issues are not only about health, but also impact education, economic growth, and Uganda’s ability to withstand climate-related challenges.

Celebrating Change-Makers in WASH

The Uganda WASH Impact and Influence Awards are designed to honor individuals and organizations that are transforming communities through innovation, inclusivity, and a deep commitment to improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services.

These awards aim to spotlight the change-makers who are leading by example, whether through groundbreaking programs, youth-led initiatives, or long-standing contributions to the sector. This year’s awards will recognize excellence across six key areas.

The Programmatic Impact category will celebrate impactful initiatives that have made measurable improvements in WASH access and delivery. Youth-led WASH Initiatives will highlight the efforts of young people who are driving meaningful change in their communities.

The Technology, Innovation, and WASH Financing category will reward those using creative tools, new technologies, or smart financial models to solve WASH challenges. Media Excellence will honor journalists and media houses whose reporting has raised awareness and influenced action.

Contributions from the academic and research community will be recognized under the Research and Academia category. Lastly, the Lifetime Achievement award will honor individuals whose decades of dedication have left a lasting legacy in Uganda’s WASH sector.

Through these awards, UWASNET aims to uplift the voices and work of those who are ensuring that every Ugandan has access to safe water, dignified sanitation, and hygiene services that improve health, productivity, and wellbeing.

“This initiative is more than a ceremony—it’s a movement to institutionalize excellence and impact in WASH,” said Martin Kityo, Liaison and Networking Officer at UWASNET.

“The media is not just a messenger—it is a mirror, a magnifier, and a mobilizer. We call on all journalists and storytellers to help us raise awareness and spotlight these WASH champions.”

Partners and Visionaries Behind the Awards

The awards are being launched with support from a broad coalition of stakeholders, including the ministry of Water and Environment, ministry of Health, ministry of Education and Sports, the Austria Development Agency, and other local and international development partners. A multi-sectoral advisory board will guide the awards process.

It includes representatives from government ministries, academia, civil society, and the private sector. An independent panel of judges will ensure fairness, transparency, and alignment with national development priorities.

Dr. Jane Nakanwagi, a member of the advisory board, emphasized the broader vision: “Recognizing those who make a difference is how we build momentum for change. These awards are about rewarding dedication and inspiring innovation.”

Call for Entries and How to Participate

UWASNET is now inviting nominations from across the country. Eligible nominees include NGOs, community-based organizations, researchers, journalists, innovators, and even individual citizens working to improve water, sanitation, and hygiene in their communities.

To apply, individuals and organizations can visit the UWASNET website to download the application form. Nominations must include a summary of achievements, supporting evidence such as reports, testimonials, or photos, and should be submitted no later than August 15, 2025.

Winners will be announced at a national award ceremony scheduled for October 3, 2025. Special recognition will also be given to media professionals who have helped raise awareness of WASH issues, through impactful print, radio, TV, or multimedia journalism.

“We want to recognize storytellers who help Ugandans understand that clean water and safe sanitation are not luxuries—they are human rights,” said Sarah Namutebi, a communications expert at the ministry of Health.

Looking Ahead

UWASNET hopes these awards will drive not just recognition, but also collaboration, policy improvements, and renewed investment in a sector that affects nearly every aspect of daily life.

“WASH is at the heart of sustainable development,” said Kityo. “By celebrating what works and who’s behind it, we can accelerate progress toward a healthier, more resilient Uganda.”

For more information about the awards, nomination guidelines, or how to get involved, visit [UWASNET website] or follow @UWASNETUganda on social media.