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Anatoli Kirigwajjo, a software engineer from Uganda, has made it to the Africa Prize Engineering Award’s final round, this talented individual reached the prestigious final of the Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation with other three remarkable engineers from across the continent.

The Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation is an annual award led by UK’s Royal Academy of Engineering that recognizes and supports African innovators who have developed engineering innovations that address challenges in their communities and drive technological advancements in various sectors. The prize aims to promote engineering innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa.

The Royal Academy of Engineering has supported more than 130 entrepreneurs across 20 African countries through the Africa Prize with a rigorous business training programme and lifelong support through the Africa Prize alumni network.

Along with three other finalists from South Africa, Nigeria, and Tanzania, Kirigwajjo was selected for the final competition. The winner of that competition will be revealed on July 6, 2023, in Accra, Ghana.

“Each of the 15 shortlisted innovators demonstrated an understanding of engineering as a tool to improve the quality of the lives of members of their communities. Energy and environmental solutions featured heavily among this year’s cohort, and it was clear that our innovators are committed to sustainable solutions for Africa’s development. Our four finalists distinguished themselves with their resolve, resilience, and initiative during the Academy’s training programme, and we are privileged to endorse these proudly African entrepreneurs engaged in world-class innovation,” Africa Prize Judge, Dr. Ibilola Amao, said shortly after the shortlist of the finalists.

Kirigwajjo created YUNGA, a neighbourhood digital security network, which connects neighbours to one another and police within a 20-kilometer radius using a physical device, smartphone app, or SMS service, offering security at a minimal cost, according to the website of the Royal Academy of Engineering.

He claimed that after losing $1,300 (Sh4.8 million) in assets as a result of a break-in at his home, he created the digital security network.

“I developed YUNGA after losing $1,300 worth of assets in a break-in with little chance of the thieves being caught. We hope that with our household networks, communities will become harder targets for criminals. This will ensure safety, which in turn will create the space for economic activities to thrive,” he said.

The prize money for the winner is expected to be $25,000 (shs92.6m).