Uthubi Sebi is a community environmental activist from Kolokoto landing site on the shores of Lake Albert in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He has dedicated his work to educating lakeshore communities about climate change, environmental degradation and the urgent need to protect one of the region’s most fragile ecosystems.
His campaigns focus on raising awareness of deforestation, pollution and land degradation, all of which directly threaten the livelihoods and health of fishing families who depend on the lake. Uthubi is best known for organising annual water and village clean up activities. These events mobilise local youth, fishers and families to remove plastic waste, polythene debris and other pollutants that would otherwise flow into Lake Albert. His efforts reduce environmental contamination and protect the lake’s biodiversity.
Lake Albert faces growing pressures, including pollution from waste, declining water quality and the risks associated with oil activities in the region. Uthubi’s work is therefore vital. By promoting environmental responsibility and local stewardship, he helps reduce the threats facing the lake and its communities.
His advocacy also highlights the wider link between environmental degradation and human health. Air and water pollution, soil contamination, deforestation and climate change contribute to respiratory illnesses, diarrhoeal diseases, skin infections, malnutrition and other health challenges in vulnerable areas. Extreme weather events and droughts further weaken local health systems and threaten physical and mental wellbeing. Uthubi works to ensure that communities understand these risks and take collective action to prevent them.
Uthubi Sebi received the Kilimo Environmental Prize in 2023 for his leadership, his dedication to community education and his sustained action to keep Lake Albert clean and healthy. He continues to inspire local families to protect their environment and safeguard the future of their fishing livelihoods.
