Digital Woman Uganda, a grassroots initiative rooted in the realities of rural Uganda, fueled by civic tech, and committed to transforming how underserved communities, especially women access life-saving information, has won the Nelson Mandela–Graça Machel Innovation Award during an award ceremony held in Bangkok, Thailand.
Digital Woman Uganda was nominated in the Community Award category, which recognizes individuals, groups, or organizations whose efforts have led to betterment in their community. Winning the award acknowledges their commitment to addressing local challenges, fostering collaboration, bridging divides, and fostering growth through their efforts.
“Winning this award gives us renewed energy not just to scale what works, but to keep dreaming of what’s possible,” Pinno Ivan Louis, co-founder of Digital Woman Uganda, told PC Tech Magazine. “We are committed to deepening our impact, forging meaningful partnerships, and pushing for digital justice that centers the most marginalized.” He adds, “This recognition isn’t just about our team, it’s about the thousands of women we serve, the allies who walk with us, and the communities who refuse to accept injustice as normal. It’s a signal to innovators everywhere that you don’t have to wait to be seen by the mainstream to make a difference.”
Digital Woman Uganda will receive a seed funding of US$7,500 (approx. UGX27.3 million), two fully-funded trips to an Innovation Convening and International Civil Society Week. They also join CIVICUS’ Innovation Community.
Why this award matters
The Nelson Mandela–Graça Machel Innovation Awards shine a light on those quietly but powerfully driving change in their communities. For Digital Women Uganda, it’s a moment that affirms the value of the work they’ve poured their hearts into: using interactive voice response (IVR) and mobile platforms to bridge the digital divide, especially in places where literacy, internet access, and social stigma often keep women in the dark about their rights and options.
“Our project, Mobimocc, brings Gender-Based Violence support and information directly to the people who need it most,” said Pinno. “It’s not just a tech solution, it’s a lifeline. And this award tells us that our approach, rooted in empathy and inclusivity, is not only valid—it’s vital.”
Named in honour of the influential leaders Nelson Mandela and Graça Machel, the Nelson Mandela-Graça Machel Innovation Awards honour and recognise individuals and organisations around the world who are developing creative and impactful solutions addressing social challenges, and for having a positive impact on citizen rights and justice movements.
The awards were established in 2004 by CIVICUS, an international alliance of civil society organisations. Since their inception, the awards have provided seed funding, communication opportunities, and networking support to help amplify the impact of grassroots initiatives. The awards underscore the importance of justice, freedom, and collective action in effecting positive change.
The 2024/25 awards were held under the theme “Uplifting Humanity,” searching for innovations that challenge the status quo and bridge divides.
