Ugandan engineer advances to the finals of the Africa Prize Engineering Award

Kirigwajjo was shortlisted for the final competition alongside three other finalists from South Africa, Nigeria, and Tanzania, of whom the winner will be announced on Thursday, July 6, 2023, in Accra, Ghana.

The shortlist followed a rigorous business training programme organised by the UK’s Royal Academy for Engineering that attracted 15 innovators across the African continent.

“Each of the 15 shortlisted innovators demonstrated an understanding of engineering as a tool to improve the quality of the lives of members of their communities. Energy and environmental solutions featured heavily among this year’s cohort, and it was clear that our innovators are committed to sustainable solutions for Africa’s development. Our four finalists distinguished themselves with their resolve, resilience, and initiative during the Academy’s training programme, and we are privileged to endorse these proudly African entrepreneurs engaged in world-class innovation,” Africa Prize Judge, Dr. Ibilola Amao, said shortly after the shortlist of the finalists.

According to the Royal Academy of Engineering website, Kirigwajjo developed YUNGA, a local digital security network that connects neighbours to each other and police within a 20-kilometre radius via a physical device, smartphone app, or SMS service, providing security at a low cost.

He said he developed the digital security network after losing $1,300 (sh4.8 million) worth of assets following a break in at his home.

"I developed YUNGA after losing $1,300 worth of assets in a break-in with little chance of the thieves being caught. We hope that with our household networks, communities will become harder targets for criminals. This will ensure safety, which in turn will create the space for economic activities to thrive," he said.

The winner is set to walk away with $25,000 (sh92.6m) as prize money.