MTN Uganda announces launch of second phase of MTN Changemakers Initiative with UGX 500 Million Investment

By Namutebi Sumayiya

MTN Uganda, through the MTN Foundation, is proud to announce the launch of the second phase of the MTN Changemakers Initiative, a transformative program designed to drive positive social change across Uganda.

This new phase will see an investment of UGX 500 million, dedicated to supporting 25 new projects in 20 districts in various regions including Kampala, Buganda, Bunyoro, Toro, Ankole, Kigezi, West Nile, Lango, Acholi, Karamoja, Teso, Elgon, North Bukedi, and Busoga, building upon the success of the first phase.

The MTN Changemakers Initiative, which began in July last year, embodies MTN Uganda’s deep commitment to uplifting and empowering communities in alignment with its Ambition 2025 strategy. The initiative aims to identify and support exceptional individuals and groups making significant contributions to their communities, creating a ripple effect of progress and development.

This development proceeds the first phase in which MTN Foundation invested UGX 500 million, benefiting 25 projects across five regions in Uganda and impacting lives of 165,000 people.

This investment made a substantial impact in critical areas such as water and sanitation, education, health, and the environment. Key highlights include:

• Faces Up Uganda: A youth-based organization in Masanafu, Rubaga Division, which empowers young people with creative skills, helping them transform their talents into livelihoods. The organization’s work, led by Emmanuel Kalule Ssekito, has inspired confidence and skill-building among the youth.

• St. Joseph’s Aid Society: Located in Kyankwanzi District, western Uganda, this organization supports orphaned students with education, accommodation, and food. The initiative provided essential resources, such as beds, and addressed additional needs like new toilets, reflecting the resilience and hope of the students.

• Karamoja Youth Center: A project in collaboration with Tocau Karamoja and the Nabilatuk District authorities, transforming a former detention facility into a dynamic youth center offering digital literacy and education. This facility, equipped with modern amenities including a computer lab and internet connectivity, has been met with enthusiasm from the local youth.

The MTN Foundation’s investment in the second phase will focus on expanding impact in key areas: economic empowerment, education, health, water, and the environment.

 This commitment aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

“MTN Uganda remains deeply committed to complementing government efforts and enhancing community development,” said MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge. “Our goal is to empower communities to realize their visions and foster collaboration for sustainable development.”

H.E Lulama Lulu” Marytheresa Xingwana, a trustee at the MTN Uganda Foundation, who also doubles as South Africa High Commissioner to Uganda,  said MTN Uganda is steadfast in its mission to create a positive and lasting impact into the lives of the communities in which it operates.

“Our focus is on uplifting those in need and ensuring that no community is left behind,” he said, adding that the MTN is driven by a commitment to championing the cause of the marginalized and creating opportunities for their growth and development.

 He said MTN Uganda firmly believe that every individual deserves a chance to thrive, regardless of their circumstances or background.

Prospective MTN changemakers can submit their application via https://www.mtn.co.ug/changemakers-application/ or submit hard copy at the MTN Uganda services Centre’s countrywide.

Over the past decade, the MTN Foundation has invested more than UGX 30 billion in over 250 projects, significantly strengthening communities nationwide.  The MTN Uganda Foundation is a not-for-profit legal entity that was inaugurated in July 2007 as a vehicle through which MTN Uganda implements its corporate social investments (CSI). The Foundation strives to improve the quality of life in communities where MTN Uganda operates in a sustainable way. Its purpose is to bring about meaningful, measurable, and sustainable change that helps disadvantaged and rural communities to become self-sufficient. With a focus on innovative technology, we aim to uplift communities towards independence in this bold new digital world. The Foundation invests resources for social redress, thus economic empowerment, education, health, and humanitarian response. The Foundation implements projects that are highly enabled by ICT solutions.