Act to mitigate climate change effect

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Uganda, like many nations, is grappling with the harsh realities of climate change. Fluctuating weather patterns have caused water levels in various waterways to decline, exacerbating floods, landslides, and prolonged droughts, which threaten the livelihoods of its people.

The Karamoja sub-region in northeastern Uganda, for instance, witnessed over 900 hunger-related deaths, predominantly attributed to severe drought.

Nearly eight out of 10 households in the region faced food insecurity, placing approximately 23,000 children at risk of severe acute malnutrition.

Human activities, notably deforestation, have significantly disrupted Uganda’s natural ecosystem.

The depletion of forest reserves, such as Budongo and Bugoma, coupled with the encroachment on numerous protected areas, has led to the loss of at least 20% of forest cover along the Kafu River.

Practices, such as bush burning and swamp reclamation have further exacerbated the adverse effects of climate change, evident in the rising temperatures across the country.

Moreover, climate change has heightened the transmission of diseases, such as cholera, which proliferates in flood-prone areas, and malaria, which thrives in warmer climates.

Addressing the consequences of climate change demands immediate action.

As a nation, Uganda must undergo a shift in mindset, recognising climate change as a pressing issue.

The successful implementation of environmentally conscious projects, exemplified by the Entebbe express route, underscores the Government’s capability to integrate environmental considerations into development agendas.

Moreover, the Government must prioritise raising awareness about climate change through various mediums, including plays, skits, social media campaigns, and public discussions.

Legislative measures are also imperative to combat eco[1]terrorism acts, such as swamp reclamation, and promote the preservation of wetlands and swamps.

Finally, safeguarding the future of Uganda’s youth necessitates concerted efforts to mitigate the impact of climate change, ensuring that subsequent generations inherit a nation resilient to its effects.