Summary:
- Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of droughts, floods, glacial melting, landslides, and heat waves, all of which threaten the livelihoods of local communities that heavily rely on natural resources.
KASESE: Kasese District Local Government, with support from Reproductive Health Uganda and funding from the Government of Denmark, has launched a 10-year “Climate Change Action Adaptation Plan.” to increase community resilience to the impacts of climate change.
The Climate Change Action Adaptation Plan, developed in response to Uganda’s growing signs of climate change—such as changes in average temperatures and rainfall was launched on Thursday at the Rwenzori International Hotel in Kasese town.
Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of droughts, floods, glacial melting, landslides, and heat waves, all of which threaten the livelihoods of local communities that heavily rely on natural resources.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Adam Spaare Spliid, the Danish Deputy Ambassador to Uganda, explained that Kasese was selected for the initiative due to its vulnerability to climate change, particularly droughts and floods. These extreme weather events often lead to displacement and, in some cases, Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
Ms. Anneti Kyarimba, Director of Programs at Reproductive Health Uganda, emphasized that in addition to addressing climate change, the implementation of the plan would tackle reproductive health issues, as well as violence against children, women, men, and youth.
Dr. Joseph Katswera, Kasese District Natural Resources Officer, presented key components of the adaptation plan, which include investing in mini-irrigation schemes, constructing roads and bridges, and empowering vulnerable girls and women, among other initiatives.
Kasese District Chairperson, Mr. Eliphaz Muhindi Bukombi, called on the funders to ensure that the activities are localized, enabling the local population to fully engage with and appreciate the initiatives in their areas.
During the launch, Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Reproductive Health Uganda, aimed at strengthening efforts to implement the adaptation plan.
