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FORT PORTAL

A group of environmentalists on Monday converged at Toro Botanical Gardens in Fort Portal, to tackle the looming specter of climate change through technology and innovation at the second edition of the Uganda Environment Symposium scheduled for 28th February, 2024.

The integral gathering aims to galvanize discussions and actions around water conservation, environmental protection, and climate change mitigation.

The symposium, organized by the Ministry of Water and Environment through the regional offices (Rural Water, Albert Water Management Zone, and South Western Umbrella) in partnership with the African Young Environment Activists (AFRIYEA) and Toro Botanical Gardens [TBG], serves as a lead-up event to the upcoming Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEWK).

Under the overarching theme of "Technology and Innovations in Addressing Water, Environment, and Climate Change," the symposium stands as a rallying point for decision-makers, climate activists, innovators, entrepreneurs, and investors to come together and propel forward solutions to combat the challenges posed by climate change.

Godfrey Ruyonga, the Director at Tooro Botanical Gardens, expressed delight in brace hosting this significant event, viewing it as a testament to their commitment to safeguarding native, endangered and socio- economically important plant species whilst advancing efforts towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious society.

Isaiah Mwesige, a Ugandan climate change activist and community clean-up campaigns leader (Plastic Waste Management) in Fort Portal emphasized the critical need for concerted action in the face of climate change's escalating impacts worldwide. Urging unity in combating this global challenge, Mwesige likened climate change to a pervasive malignancy that spares no region or demographic, particularly affecting developing nations.

Dr. Guma Brian Emmanuel, the Albert Water Management Zone team leader.

Dr. Guma Brian Emmanuel, the Albert Water Management Zone team leader, underscored the Ministry of Water and Environment's unwavering support in facilitating collaborative platforms like the symposium. Recognizing the imperative of technology and innovation in forging sustainable solutions, Brian stressed the importance of collective engagement in shaping a secure and resilient future for all Ugandans.

As the symposium unfolds, it serves as a beacon of hope, uniting visionaries and advocates in a shared mission to cultivate a climate-resilient Albertine region and. Through the convergence of minds and resources, Uganda stands poised to lead the charge in addressing climate change head-on, buoyed by the spirit of innovation and collaboration permeating the Uganda Environment Symposium 2024.

The symposium is part of the Albertine Regional Uganda Water and Environment Week celebrations, a precursor to the National Water and Environment Week 2024.