Innovative Ugandan Entrepreneurs Win Community Healers Prize for Fruit Preservation
Innovative Ugandan Entrepreneurs Win Community Healers Prize
In a ceremony held in Iceland, the European Patent Office (EPO) awarded the prestigious Community Healers Prize to Ugandan innovators Sandra Namboozo and Samuel Muyita for their groundbreaking work in natural fruit preservation.
At just 26 and 28 years old, respectively, Namboozo and Muyita have developed a biodegradable sachet, known as Karpolax, which significantly prolongs the freshness of fruits without the need for refrigeration. This innovative product has the potential to revolutionize post-harvest practices in regions where access to cold storage is limited.
A Solution to Food Waste
According to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), over a billion tons of food are wasted each year, while millions face hunger. In sub-Saharan Africa, where refrigeration is often unavailable, post-harvest losses particularly affect smallholder farmers. Namboozo and Muyita's invention aims to combat this issue directly.
Karpolax works by releasing natural compounds that slow down the ripening process and prevent the deterioration of fruits. During pilot tests conducted with the National Agricultural Research Organisation of Uganda, it was shown that Karpolax could extend the shelf life of mangoes from 11 to 33 days. Similar results were achieved with bananas, apples, and oranges, marking a remarkable step forward in agricultural innovation.
The young inventors, both hailing from farming backgrounds, launched Karpolax in 2020. By 2023, their product had already helped over 100 farmers, 20 exporters, and 250 vendors, successfully preventing more than a million tons of fruit waste.
Empowering Farmers and Communities
In their acceptance speech for the Community Healers Prize, Namboozo and Muyita shared, “Winning this special award is a powerful validation not only of our work but also of the farmers we serve daily. It highlights a simple truth at a global scale—empathy-driven innovation can change the world.” Their project not only addresses food security but also promotes social equity, echoing the values of the Community Healers initiative aimed at nurturing change agents who focus on social equity and food security solutions.
In addition to this prize, Namboozo and Muyita received financial support of 20,000 euros, which will be instrumental in scaling their operations and further developing their low-cost, natural alternative to synthetic preservatives.
Facing Challenges Head-On
The journey to launch Karpolax was fraught with challenges, including a lack of resources and lab access. “Initially, we struggled to find the equipment and expertise we needed, moving from lab to lab. However, we have learned to navigate these difficulties,” Muyita explained. Their determination showcases the resilience of young entrepreneurs tackling significant global issues.
The Young Inventors Prize, which recognizes innovators under 30 addressing challenges related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), continues to provide a platform for young visionaries like Namboozo and Muyita. Their work closely supports SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 12 (Sustainable Consumption and Production), demonstrating their commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
As they continue to innovate, Namboozo and Muyita plan to develop new sachets for other fruits and vegetables, expanding their impact on food preservation and waste reduction.
Conclusion
Namboozo and Muyita's achievements serve as a powerful reminder of the role young people can play in shaping a sustainable future. Their story is not just about winning a prize; it is about the potential of innovative solutions to drive significant change in agriculture and community welfare. As they advance, the world watches with great anticipation.
For more information on the Young Inventors Prize and the impressive work of innovators like Namboozo and Muyita, stay tuned for future updates.