The International Transport Forum (ITF) announces the winners of its inaugural Decarbonising Transport Award. The ITF Decarbonising Transport Award winner in the innovation category is Wanyama Autosafety Initiatives for its efforts at reducing air pollution from vehicle emissions.
The Kampala-based start-up mobilises a network of over 400 local mechanics to improve the environmental performance of the Ugandan capital's most polluting vehicles. Born of an urgency to halt the detrimental effects of poor air quality in a city where pollution levels often reach six times the WHO's recommended safety limits, Wanyama Autosafety Initiatives spearheads research into solutions for transport-induced pollution. The initiative aims to increase public visibility and engagement and promotes a pragmatic, data-driven approach to tackling emissions.
The Ugandan project hopes to use the EUR 10 000 prize on equipment, including field-based data collection equipment that will bolster the evidence base for tackling vehicle emissions. Wanyama Autosafety Initiatives also hopes to launch an electric vehicle conversion programme.
Accepting the Award at the International Transport Forum's Summit on "Transport for Inclusive Societies" in Leipzig, Germany, on 20 May 2022, Michael R. Wanyama, Wanyama Autosafety Initiatives' Executive Director, said: "Our multi-faceted programme aims to address the devastating effects of air pollution in our largest city. Early results from this start-up venture clearly demonstrate that a community-based approach rooted in sound data analysis can result in better air quality and improved road safety. I hope the international recognition that comes with this prestigious Award will lead to a change in policies and a cleaner, sustainable mobility future in Uganda and beyond."
