On August 29th, a team of researchers from the School of Economics at Makerere University held an Inception and Methodological Workshop to kick off their groundbreaking study titled “Supporting African Youth Entrepreneurs to Accelerate Just Transition to Clean Energy and Climate-Resilient Businesses.” The workshop, which marked the official launch of the project, was attended by various stakeholders, including policymakers, private sector representatives, civil society members, and development partners.
The research team, led by Dr. Fred Matovu, provided an overview of the study’s focus and outlined the methodology that will guide the research process. The project is centered on developing climate-smart energy solutions for Youth-led Small and Medium Enterprises (YSMEs) in Uganda and Tanzania, with the ultimate goal of accelerating a just transition to renewable clean energy sources. This transition is seen as crucial for establishing climate-friendly businesses that can thrive in a low-carbon economy.
Dr. Matovu highlighted that the study will be conducted in three key phases. The first phase involves researching how YSMEs can effectively contribute to low-carbon growth through the adoption of clean energy. This phase will also identify institutions capable of providing training and mentorship in green practices, as well as assess the existing policies and regulatory frameworks related to clean energy in Uganda.
In the second phase, the research team will conduct a comprehensive survey of 50 YSMEs to evaluate their potential for adopting clean energy practices. The survey results will help pinpoint specific areas where technical assistance is needed. From these 50 enterprises, 15-20 YSMEs with the highest potential for transition will be selected for further support. Each selected enterprise will receive a tailored clean energy and gender-transformative transition plan.
The third and final phase of the project focuses on scaling these clean energy solutions. The research team will develop detailed scaling plans for the selected YSMEs, mobilize sector experts to provide mentorship, and connect the enterprises with relevant funders, investors, and networks. This phase aims to ensure that the YSMEs have access to the capital, information, and technologies necessary to support their transition to low-carbon, green growth.
The workshop was officially opened by the Deputy Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences, who commended the initiative, emphasizing its alignment with Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the Uganda Green Growth Development Strategy (UGGDS). The UGGDS underscores principles such as resource efficiency, social inclusion, and sustainable economic growth—all of which are central to the project’s objectives.
By engaging youth-led enterprises in the transition to clean energy, the project not only contributes to the fight against climate change but also supports Uganda’s broader goal of achieving inclusive economic development and creating decent green jobs. As the project progresses, it promises to play a vital role in shaping the future of Uganda’s YSMEs, making them more resilient to climate change while fostering sustainable growth.
Research Team
UGANDA
- Fred Matovu (Team lead)
- John Mutenyo (Co-researcher – Energy Economist)
- Phiona Atuhaire (Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity)
- Ms P Taaka (MA student)
TANZANIA
- Jehovaness Aikaeli (Project leader)
- Beatrice K. Mkenda (Co-researcher)