MTN Uganda has unveiled the third phase of its flagship Changemakers Initiative, a community-focused programme aimed at funding grassroots innovations that positively impact lives across the country. Managed through the MTN Foundation, this phase will allocate UGX 500 million in grants to 25 new projects centered on education, health, water and environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment. The move underscores MTN’s ongoing commitment to fostering local talent and promoting inclusive growth.
Speaking on behalf of MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia ElSheikh, the Chief Marketing Officer highlighted the transformative power of people-driven innovation. “The Changemakers Initiative shows that hope, compassion, and action can change communities. Technology is only impactful when it serves people’s needs. This phase is about partnering with Uganda’s local heroes and amplifying their positive influence,” she said.
Since its launch, the initiative has supported 50 projects, reaching over 165,000 Ugandans across five sub-regions. During the second phase, the Foundation received more than 2,400 applications, with 295 meeting the evaluation criteria, and 25 projects selected for implementation between October 2024 and March 2025. Past projects have ranged from education programmes for vulnerable children to rural clean water systems and youth-led environmental campaigns.
George William Egaddu, Chairperson of the MTN Foundation Board of Trustees, emphasized Uganda’s greatest asset—its people. “We’ve seen individuals and community groups, despite limited resources, tackle local challenges with creativity and courage. They are the real changemakers, proving that even small ideas, when supported, can create substantial impact,” he said. Egaddu noted that the initiative aligns with MTN’s Ambition 2025 strategy and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, reinforcing the Foundation’s dedication to inclusive development and collaboration with government for societal progress.
Applications for the third phase of the Changemakers Initiative are now open. Interested Ugandans can apply through www.mtn.co.ug/changemakers, via WhatsApp at 0772 123 100, or at any MTN Service Centre. ElSheikh urged innovators nationwide to seize this opportunity: “To the dreamers and doers across Uganda, this is your chance. Submit your projects and let’s work together to create meaningful change in communities across the country.”
Through this initiative, MTN Uganda continues to demonstrate its dedication to empowering local communities, driving innovation, and implementing practical solutions that improve livelihoods and foster social development nationwide.
