Profile: Elijah Astute

Irenge Barhame Elia, known professionally as Elijah Astute, is a social entrepreneur, permaculture practitioner, climate activist, and community organizer living in Nakivale Refugee Settlement in Uganda.

Elijah dedicates his life to creating sustainable opportunities for vulnerable communities through environmental restoration, organic agriculture, mushroom cultivation, and skills development.

“I believe that dignity, inclusion, and self-reliance can be achieved when people are empowered with practical knowledge and economic opportunities,” he says.

“I see myself as a community builder and social innovator committed to empowering refugees and marginalized communities through sustainable livelihoods, environmental conservation, and social justice.

“I have been inspired by many people who dedicate their lives to building stronger communities and caring for the environment. I particularly admire Robin Clayfield for her leadership in permaculture education and community development.”

Currently, Elijah is focusing on expanding his Go Green Social Initiative, which aims to provide sustainable livelihoods through organic mushroom farming, value addition, and permaculture.

He also wants to increase support to LGBTQ+ refugees, youth, women, and other vulnerable community members through skills training, entrepreneurship, and income-generating activities.

One of the Go Green projects is mushroom cultivation. Community members learn organic practices and value adds like mushroom powder production, creating employment opportunities, improving household nutrition, and helping generate reliable incomes, sustainably.

Elijah has supported hundreds of people with practical training in permaculture, and entrepreneurship and has been selected to complete his Permaculture Design Certificate in Queensland, Australia next month.

“Creating Go Green Social Initiative has been one of the most meaningful achievements in my life. Starting with limited resources, I built an organization that empowers refugees and host communities through practical skills, environmental conservation, and sustainable business development. Seeing people earn incomes, improve food security, and gain confidence through our programs continues to motivate me every day.

“I believe that lasting change begins within communities. Even in the face of displacement and limited resources, people have incredible potential when they are given opportunities to learn, collaborate, and lead.

“My vision is to build resilient communities where people live in harmony with nature, earn sustainable incomes, and support one another with dignity and hope. I am always open to partnerships that create positive environmental and social impact.”

Elijah welcomes opportunities to collaborate with individuals, organizations, researchers, donors, and partners who share a commitment to sustainability and community development. You can contact him by email (astutelijah1@gmail.com) or donate to Go Green here.

Photos supplied by Elijah, with thanks.