Sarah Kagingo Honored with Prau Lifetime Achievement Award
Celebrating Excellence in Public Relations
The Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU) recently honored a distinguished figure in the field of communication with a Lifetime Achievement Award. The recipient, Sarah Kagingo, has made significant contributions to public relations, strategic communication, and reputation management over several decades. Her work has not only elevated the standards of the profession in Uganda but also inspired a new generation of practitioners.
Kagingo, the founder and CEO of Softpower Communications, served as PRAU president from September 2018 to December 2020. During her tenure, she initiated key reforms, including the development of the first-ever five-year strategy for PRAU. She also played a vital role in investing funds for the planned PRAU home, building partnerships, and mentoring young professionals. Her leadership helped unify the nearly 50-year-old organization and fostered a culture of excellence.
The award recognized Kagingo for her exceptional contributions to sustainable enterprise growth and market integration. She has been instrumental in creating impactful solutions that transform communities and support Uganda’s economic progress. Additionally, Kagingo has worked to promote peace in the country through her involvement with the Uganda Peace Support Team. She has also earned recognition for advancing Uganda's tourism on digital platforms and promoting positive narratives about the nation.
Currently, Kagingo serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) and as a Director for the Professional Services Sector. She previously held roles such as Principal Press Secretary to the Speaker of the 11th Parliament and Special Presidential Assistant for Communication. Her work in digitizing President Museveni's communications has been widely acknowledged.
Earlier this year, Kagingo received the "Distinguished Leadership in the Private Sector" award at Brand Africa 100: Uganda's Best Brands (2025), further cementing her reputation as a leader in the field.
A Night of Celebration and Industry Excellence
The 9th Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU) Excellence Awards evening was held at Protea Hotel Kampala, celebrating innovation and impact in public relations. PRAU President Irene Nakasiita opened the event, welcoming guests from across the communication industry. The ceremony, themed "Recognising Innovation and Impact in Public Relations," brought together PR leaders, corporate executives, policymakers, and development partners.
Nakasiita expressed her gratitude to attendees for joining despite a busy schedule. She emphasized the growing importance of strategic communication in an era of rapid change. “In this year's edition of the PRAU Excellence Awards, we are not just celebrating winners, but innovators who have redefined what is possible in our profession through creative concepts that continue to prove that strategic communication is a powerful driver of trust, progress, and transformation,” she said.
She congratulated all nominees and winners, highlighting their efforts in raising the standards of professional excellence in Uganda's public relations industry.
Technology and AI Shaping the Future of PR
The awards theme reflected a sector undergoing major transformation. Uthman Mayanja, Country Senior Partner at PwC Uganda, highlighted the growing influence of technology on communication practices. He noted that artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept but is actively reshaping industries. Unlike many sectors that feel threatened by technological disruption, public relations stands to benefit significantly from these advancements.
Kagingo Celebrated for Transformative Contribution
One of the highlights of the evening was the recognition of Sarah Kagingo, whose award celebrated her long-standing leadership in communication, advocacy, and public affairs. Kagingo has played a defining role in shaping Uganda's modern PR landscape through public service, private-sector communication, and digital advocacy. PRAU hailed her as a "pillar of excellence" and a mentor to many emerging professionals.
The South African High Commissioner to Uganda, Solly Mollo, who served as Chief Guest, congratulated all honourees and encouraged cross-country collaboration in communication and visibility efforts. He praised PRAU for championing excellence and recognizing individuals and organizations that continue to elevate the PR practice.
PRAU also acknowledged the support of institutions and partners who made the 9th edition possible. Sponsors included Bank of Uganda, PwC, SoftPower Communications, NBS TV, AfroMobile App, NextCom, UBC TV, Affinity Media, UNOC, Crown Beverages, Electricity Regulatory Authority, Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, MTN Uganda, UEDCL, Galaxy FM & TV, CEO East Africa Magazine, Guide2Uganda, The Independent Magazine, PML Daily, Comms of Africa, and the Office of the Auditor General.
Award Winners Across 13 Categories
The event recognized outstanding achievements across 13 categories:
- Student Award: Danniella Makiika - Uganda Martyrs University
- Young Communicator of the Year: Gaaba Lakel Maria
- Best Media Relations and Media Management Campaign: UEDCL
- Best Event/Experiential Campaign: MultiChoice Uganda
- Best Internal Communication Campaign: Uganda Baati Limited / MAAD McCANN
- Best Crisis Communication: Equity Bank Uganda Limited / Capital One Group
- Best CSR and ESG Campaign: NCBA Bank
- Best Public Affairs Campaign: UEDCL
- Best Corporate Communication Campaign: DFCU Bank / Capital One Group
- Best Not-for-Profit Campaign: Sauti Plus / Reach a Hand Uganda
- Best Social/Digital Communication Campaign: Serene Beauty
- Best PR Agency: Node Group
- Best Overall PR Campaign: Serene Beauty
Posting Komentar