Ugandan nominated for Africa innovation award

 

 

Samuel Otukol was nominated by the Africa Innovation Foundation (AIF) under the Water distillation system and process category.

 

His innovation according to Stally Aulora the communications manager at AIF proposes an a lternative source of viable drinkable water in areas of water shortage or where only sea water is available. 

 

Salty water is evaporated at low temperatures (30 to 50 degrees Celsius) and then condensed into fresh water at lower costs than incurred using reverse osmosis. 

 

The proposed process can also use solar energy in remote areas. It helps in water shortages in drought-stricken areas.

Aulora who made the announcement in a press statement said over 925 applications from 41 countries were received but only ten were nominated.  

 

This year's finalists showcase a diverse range of innovations from agriculture, to education and e-health.

 

They include: Jean Bosco Kazirukanyo from Burundi, Marc Arthur Zang, Cameroon, Alex Mwaura Muriu and Kyai Mullei from Kenya.

 

Others are: Adnane Remmal, from Morocco, and David Gluckman, Johann Pierre Kok, Lesley Erica Scott and Neil Du Preez, all from South Africa. 

 

Aulora said all nominees represent outstanding innovation talent across Africa and will be considered for the grand share prize of US$150 000, with the most outstanding innovation receiving US$100 000, and two prizes of US$25 000 for innovation with the highest social impact and best business potential respectively.  

 

"Since its inaugural launch in 2011, IPA has gathered great momentum, and is now recognized for leading the innovation frontier in Africa by rewarding innovators for their home-grown, market-led innovations that contribute to Africa's growth, development and prosperity," Aulora said.

 

Reflecting on IPA achievements in catalysing the innovation spirit in Africa, Jean Claude Bastos de Morais, AIF Founder said: "The IPA has come a long way since its inception. 

 

The first major milestone was achieved in 2012 when the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa passed a resolution to promote an innovation society for Africa's socio-economic transformation," he said.

 

He added that year after year, the innovations that are presented for the IPA comprise high-value African solutions with positive socio-economic impact.

 

"IPA is a platform not only for showcasing Africa's ability to innovate to address its own challenges, but also for celebrating Africa's ingenuity," Bastos de Morais said.

 

It is a landmark initiative of the Africa Innovation Foundation and mobilizes African innovators to invest in African-led solutions to ensure a sustainable, prosperous Africa.