ATEI Crowns First-Ever Miss Climate Change Awareness Uganda in bid to Accelerate Women into Climate Action

Uganda crowned its first-ever Miss Climate Change Awareness Uganda 2025 on International Women’s Day.

The occasion, held under the theme “Accelerating Women’s Involvement in Climate Action for Resilience, Livelihoods, and a Sustainable World,” marked a significant milestone in empowering young women as climate action champions.

Qn. Sandra Namirembe (C), Miss Climate Change Awareness Uganda 2025-26 / (R) Qn. Kusiima Jerusha Prudence (1st Runner's Up), (L) Qn. Sharon Natukunda (2nd Runners Up)

The event, organized by Africa Tourism and Environment Initiatives (ATEI), served as a pre-activity for Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEWK).

It sought to highlight the crucial role of young women in tackling climate change and contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

After an intense competition that brought together passionate young women from across the country, Queen Sandra Namirembe emerged victorious, earning the coveted title of Miss Climate Change Awareness Uganda 2025.

She was closely followed by First Runner-Up, Queen Kusiima Jerusha Prudence while Second Runner-Up Queen Sharon Natukunda secured third place.

The crowning event also recognized regional representatives who will spearhead climate action campaigns in their respective areas:

Miss Climate Change Awareness (Western Uganda): Kirungi Christine

Miss Climate Change Awareness (Northern Uganda): Stella Aber

Miss Climate Change Awareness (Central Uganda): Nabuule Maria Maureen

Miss Climate Change Awareness (Eastern Uganda): Namulondo Henrietta

Additionally, special category winners were honored for their outstanding contributions to sustainability:

Miss Climate – Green Innovation 2025-26: Kyarikunda Bridget

Miss Climate – Water Conservation 2025-26: Auma Olivia

Miss Climate – Community Impact 2025-26: Ademun Karen Helmy

Bismac Moses Amumpaire, Team Lead of ATEI, emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating that it marks a milestone in inspiring youth, particularly young women—to take the lead in climate advocacy and drive sustainable solutions.

“This initiative is a game-changer. It showcases the role of young women in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). The impact will be far-reaching, empowering young women to lead in climate action, conservation, and sustainability.”

ATEI Chairlady, Twesigye Claire, highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and the urgent need to position them at the forefront of climate action and decision-making.

“Women are the most affected by climate change, yet they remain underrepresented in climate leadership. Miss Climate Change Awareness is about empowering young women with knowledge, skills, and opportunities to drive meaningful change in their communities.”

The journey to the crown was not just about competition but also about capacity-building. Contestants underwent an intensive one-week boot camp at UWEC Entebbe Zoo, where they received hands-on training in environmental conservation, leadership, and sustainable development.

Sandra Namirembe, the newly crowned Miss Climate Change Awareness Uganda, expressed gratitude for the transformative experience, calling it a “game-changer” in her life.

“This journey has been incredible. The knowledge and skills we have gained are invaluable, and I am ready to use my voice and my platform to advocate for climate action,” she said.

As part of her new role, Namirembe will represent Uganda at COP 30 in Brazil, engage in climate awareness campaigns, and spearhead sustainability initiatives across the country.

ATEI has long been at the forefront of environmental advocacy in Uganda. The organization has pioneered several impactful initiatives, including:

Pet A Tree: A tree-planting campaign promoting climate resilience.

Wildlife Concerts: Engaging youth in conservation efforts through music.

Ekkula Sustainable Tourism Awards: Recognizing outstanding contributors to sustainable tourism.

Climate Awareness Marathon: Raising awareness through sports.

Empowering Indigenous Communities: Supporting reformed cattle rustlers in Karamoja.

Green Schools Project: Integrating climate education into school curriculums.

The success of the event was made possible through collaboration with key partners, including Chocolate Safaris, which provided contestant transportation; Uganda Wildlife Authority ( UWEC Entebbe Zoo), which hosted the boot camp; Brand Ambassadors 256, which organized the event; and a panel of esteemed judges who contributed their time and expertise in selecting the winners.