Fiona Amito, Co-founder of Diverse Minds
Kampala, Uganda — At a pivotal conference on wetland and water management held at Hotel Africana on 2nd May 2025, Diverse Minds, a leading advocate for neurodivergent inclusion, made a strong case for incorporating sensory-friendly spaces into environmental conservation efforts.
Speaking alongside the Ministry of Water and Environment and the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), Fiona Amito, co-founder of Diverse Minds and a parent to a neurodivergent child, emphasized that wetlands offer more than ecological value—they serve as peaceful, restorative environments essential to the mental and sensory well-being of neurodivergent individuals.
“Losing wetlands means losing vital places where neurodivergent people can recharge, reflect, and feel safe,” Fiona stated, urging policymakers to integrate neurodiversity into environmental planning and policy.
Also in attendance was Truxor Wetland Equipment from Sweden. CEO Jons Naslund highlighted the company’s innovative role in addressing global water challenges, particularly through pollution control and flood prevention technologies—solutions highly relevant to Uganda’s sustainability goals.
With Uganda serving as a model for regional environmental action, the conference underscored a broader commitment to inclusive, resilient, and forward-thinking water and wetland management across East Africa.