Employee Spotlight: Akatukunda Sheillah, Environmental Sustainability Manager

Meet Akatukunda Sheillah, the powerhouse behind AgroSupply’s sustainability efforts! Sheillah is in charge of promoting eco-friendly practices that benefit farmers and the planet. Her unwavering passion for sustainability and commitment to making a lasting impact inspire us all. She’s truly a key part of our mission to build a greener future!

• What inspired you to work in environmental sustainability?

I have environmental science training and I am very passionate about environmental conservation. Environmental sustainability is the practice of using natural resources responsibly to ensure they are available for future generations. Witnessing the adverse effects of environmental degradation, such as pollution, deforestation, and climate change, made me realize the urgent need for proactive solutions.

Additionally, I’ve always been drawn to the intricate balance of ecosystems and how human activity can either harm or harmonize with nature. I find great satisfaction in working on projects that create a positive impact, whether it’s reducing waste, promoting renewable energy, or improving resource efficiency.

Finally, knowing that sustainable practices benefit not only the planet but also communities by fostering health, resilience, and economic opportunities further fuels my drive to contribute meaningfully in this field.

• What’s one small change farmers can make to help protect the environment?

Farmers can opt not to plant in wetlands, reduce the use of inorganic fertilizers and establish buffer zones around water bodies. These simple practices will ensure the sustainable use of natural resources.

• What’s the most exciting sustainability project you’ve worked on at AgroSupply?

I was part of the team that conducted the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for the grain mill factory that will be established. An ESIA is a crucial tool in environmental and sustainability practices. It systematically evaluates potential environmental, social, and economic impacts of a proposed project or development, ensuring that decisions are informed and sustainable. Impacts were identified and mitigation measures were proposed. This was done in consultation with major stakeholders in the industry. I am looking forward to project implementation so that we can have everything that was proposed in place.

Currently, we are developing an environment management system that we shall implement during the operation of the project.

• How do you measure the impact of our environmental initiatives?

All I can say is that we are on the right track. The training we carry out to equip farmers on environmental sustainability is making a big difference in our communities.

Once the Grain mill factory project commences, we shall be able to collect data, analyze it, monitor the project and carry out environmental audits and this will give us a better picture of our performance.

• If you could implement any new sustainability practice, what would it be?

I would encourage the use of renewable energy. I would encourage our farmers to install solar panels for farm operations.