Nairobi, Kenya: Uganda Plastic Manufacturers and Recyclers Association (UPMRA) Executive Director, Moses Ategeka, has been honoured with an international award by Smart EXPO International for his exceptional advocacy and promotion of plastic recycling technologies across East Africa.
Ategeka, a former radio journalist turned environmental advocate, was recognized during the Smart EXPO International Green Technology Conference, which brought together dignitaries from Africa, Europe, and Asia to celebrate innovations driving sustainability.
“I am so proud and deeply honoured that Smart EXPO International has recognised my effort. Recycling plastics is crucial, and we must continue to make visible strides to protect our planet. It’s truly inspiring to be surrounded by fellow industry leaders who share our commitment to advocating for plastic recycling,” Ategeka said while receiving the award.
Ategeka has championed plastic recycling as a livelihood model, transforming waste into economic opportunity. He said his personal experience with poor plastic disposal in Uganda drove him to act.
“I realised how big the problem of poor disposal of plastics is, and that it affects every one of us, especially on rainy days. This inspired me to start gathering and recycling plastics,” he said.
The award was presented by Smart EXPO International, a global initiative based in India that champions green technologies and sustainable development across Africa, Eurasia, and beyond.
Smart EXPO International Chairman, Chief B. Swaminathan alias Swammy, praised Ategeka for his commitment, noting that industrialisation must be balanced with environmental protection through green technology advancement.
“Powerful advocates like Ategeka are crucial in shaping societies that value and embrace waste reduction, reuse, and recycling,” Swaminathan said.
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and SMEs, Rt. Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya, represented the Government of Kenya at the event. Tanzania Plastic Manufacturers and Traders Association (IPMAT) President, Chief Mushtak, also received an award for advancing inclusive plastic green technologies in Tanzania.
Uganda’s Environment Act of 2019 was cited as one of the most progressive legal frameworks in Africa, promoting scientific and technological innovations that align with environmental sustainability goals.
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