In a significant step towards promoting sustainable energy practices and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, PELUM Uganda with support from Bridge from the world donated   briquette-making machines to Nyakasheema Farmer Family Learning groups under African Rural University in Rutete Subcounty.

The event, held on August 17th, 2025, brought together over 50 members of the Nyakasheema Farmer Family Learning Group, who actively participated in a capacity-building session on the use and benefits of the machine. The session focused on how to operate the briquette-making machine, and also on understanding the broader environmental and economic benefits of producing briquettes from agricultural waste.

The briquette-making machine was handed over to the Nyakasheema Farmer Family Learning Group by the PELUM team  led by Kayongo Charles

How the Briquette-Making Machine Works

The briquette-making machine allows community members to convert agricultural residues, such as maize stalks, rice husks, rubbish and sawdust, into compact fuel briquettes. These briquettes after making are used as an eco-friendly alternative to charcoal and firewood  for cooking .

During the training, community members learned step-by-step procedures including collecting and drying biomass, grinding it into fine particles, mixing with natural binders, and pressing it into uniform briquettes ready for use or sale.

Group members learning step-by-step procedure of charcoal briquette making using the machine

The activity also included discussions on business opportunities around how producing and selling briquettes can provide an additional income stream for families while supporting environmental conservation.

Group-produced uniform briquettes ready for sun-drying and use after training.

During the handover of the briquette-making machines, Mr. Jackson Kusiima, Lecturer at ARU and the coordinator for PELUM activities, noted that with the machines in place, this will enhance training opportunities for students in the Bachelor of  Science in Sustainable Agriculture (BSSA) programme during community engagement , allowing them to acquire practical skills from local farmers  to complement their academic learning and support rural transformation initiatives.