MTN Uganda has rolled out the third phase of its flagship Changemakers Initiative, a community investment programme designed to fund and scale grassroots innovations that are transforming lives across the country.
The initiative, implemented through the MTN Foundation, will provide Shs 500 million in grants to support 25 new community projects focused on education, health, water and environment and economic empowerment. The launch marks a renewed commitment by the technology company to drive inclusive growth and expand opportunities for local changemakers.
Speaking at the launch in Kampala on behalf of MTN Uganda’s Chief Executive Officer, Sylvia ElSheikh, the Chief Marketing Officer said the Foundation’s goal is to strengthen communities through people-centred innovation and shared progress.
“The Changemakers Initiative reminds us that hope, compassion and action can truly change the world,” She said. “Technology is only meaningful when it improves lives. That’s why MTN is investing in people and communities who are using creativity and innovation to solve local challenges. This next phase is about walking with Uganda’s unsung heroes and amplifying their impact.”
Since its inception, the MTN Changemakers Initiative has backed 50 community projects, reaching more than 165,000 beneficiaries across Uganda’s five sub-regions.
In its second phase, the Foundation received over 2,400 applications, with 295 meeting evaluation criteria and 25 being funded for implementation between October 2024 and March 2025.
Projects supported under previous phases have included education programmes for vulnerable children, clean water systems for rural households and youth-driven environmental initiatives.
George William Egaddu, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the MTN Foundation Uganda, said the initiative has proven that Uganda’s most powerful resource is its people.
“We’ve met individuals and community groups who, despite limited means, are solving local problems with courage and innovation,” Egaddu said. “They are the true changemakers who remind us that small ideas, when nurtured, can deliver extraordinary impact.”
He added that the Foundation’s work aligns with MTN’s Ambition 2025 strategy and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive development and partnership with government to advance social progress.
“Our focus remains on empowering communities through practical, sustainable solutions that enhance livelihoods,” he said.
ElSheikh urged Ugandans with bold, transformative ideas to take part. “To the dreamers and doers across the country, this is your moment,” she said. “Submit your applications and let’s work together to build a better Uganda, one community at a time.”
