Two Makerere University alumni, Sandra Namboozo and Samuel Muyita, have earned international recognition after being shortlisted among the Top 10 finalists for the prestigious 2025 Young Inventors Prize by the European Patent Office (EPO).
Their innovation is a plant-based, biodegradable sachet that extends the shelf life of fresh fruit.
This aims to tackle post-harvest losses and food waste, especially among smallholder farmers and retailers in Uganda.
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Namboozo and Muyita’s invention, therefore, not only addresses waste but also improves market accessibility and income for farmers.
Their innovation directly supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Zero Hunger, Responsible Consumption and Production, and Climate Action.
The Young Inventors Prize is open to individuals aged 30 and below whose innovations contribute meaningfully to these global goals.
On 18th June, 2025, the award ceremony will celebrate the “10 Tomorrow Shapers” and announce winners in three special categories: World Builders, Community Healers, and Nature Guardians.
The People’s Choice Award—voted by the public online—will also be revealed.
Their recognition puts Uganda on the global innovation map and underscores Makerere University’s growing legacy in championing solutions that merge sustainability and science.
Voting for the People’s Choice Prize is now open on the European Patent Office website.
