Maureen Anino, Assistant Commissioner at Uganda’s Ministry of Water and Environment, was among the first cohort of fellows in the Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) program. Her experience reflects Uganda’s growing commitment to aligning environmental sustainability with development goals
In 2020, Maureen was selected as one of five Ugandan fellows. At the time, she had just been promoted and had become a new mother.
“It was a huge honor to be selected,” she recalls. “Balancing work, motherhood, and the program was not easy, but the EfD team supported me.”
Her selection was based on her policy experience and her work in natural resource management, making her a strong fit to represent Uganda in the regional program.
Learning and shifting perspectives
Initially unsure of what to expect, Maureen was concerned the program would be too technical.
“I thought it would focus only on economics, and since I didn’t have that background, I was a bit anxious,” she says.
“But it was broader—it combined environmental, economic, and social issues. It showed how economics can support sustainable development.”
She found the focus on economic instruments particularly useful.
“I saw how we can apply tools like taxes or penalties to encourage better environmental practices. That was very practical and eye-opening.”
Turning knowledge into action
Since completing the program, Maureen has worked to integrate IGE principles into her department’s policies.
“One key message I took from the program is that communities must benefit socially or economically from conservation efforts,” she explains.
“Now, when we design projects, we include support for the people who rely on those natural resources.”
She also contributed to developing express penalty charges under the National Environment Act. These penalties discourage violations by making non-compliance costly. At the same time, the funds collected go back into environmental protection.
The IGE program also allowed Maureen to build lasting professional relationships, not just within Uganda, but internationally.
“I met amazing colleagues from various countries, and we continue to exchange knowledge and ideas,” she shared.
Program challenges and recommendations
While Maureen praises the IGE program, she would see a value in more in-person sessions.
“Virtual learning was helpful, but the face-to-face sessions were much more impactful. It would also be great to see our proposals turned into real projects.”
Despite the program’s impact, Maureen notes that awareness of IGE is still limited.
“Many people don’t yet understand what inclusive green economy means, especially in sectors like water management. We need more training, research, and sharing of findings.”
She recommends expanding the number of program slots to train more civil servants.
“Having more fellows each year, especially from both water and environment sectors, would accelerate the integration of IGE into national plans.”
Looking ahead
Maureen remains committed to promoting inclusive green development.
“The IGE program gave me the tools to make a difference,” she says.
“Now the challenge is to apply those tools consistently, so Uganda can grow in a way that protects the environment and supports our people.”
Compiled and written by
Jane Anyango
Communication Officer