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Uganda has launched its pavilion at the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28 UAE) in the United Arab Emirates being held at the Dubai Expo 2020. 

Uganda’s participation is part of the stride in global climate action to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The parties are the countries that signed up to the original UN climate agreement in 1992.

The Friday event presided over by Ruth Nankabirwa, Uganda’s energy minister was witnessed by UAE minister of state for foreign affairs Sheikh Shakhboot Bin Nahyan Al Nahyan representing the UAE government and various Ugandan dignitaries.  

From November 30-December 12, 2023, COP28 is expected to bring together the parties to the UNFCCC. Nankabirwa who represented Uganda's Prime Minister, Robinah Nabbanja, expressed Uganda’s commitment to combating climate change. 

"Our pavilion is not just a structure, but a symbol of our readiness to lead climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts," she said.

Highlighting Uganda's legislative and policy strides, such as the Nationally Determined Contributions and Climate Change Act 2021, she reinforced the country's dedication to a sustainable future. She further emphasised Uganda's initiatives in combating climate change and its efforts to achieve a net-zero emissions economy by 2050. 

"Our presence here at COP28 underscores our resolve to work towards a sustainable future, ensuring peace and prosperity for all by 2030," Nankabirwa added.

In a show of solidarity and support, Sheikh Shakhboot, a crown prince of Abu Dhabi and the foreign affairs minister in the UAE government, lauded the solid bilateral relations between Uganda and the UAE. He acknowledged the significance of the pavilion's launch. 

"UAE is proud to stand with Uganda in this global fight against climate change. Our shared goals for a sustainable future bind us together," he said.

Sheikh Shakhboot emphasised the UAE's role in facilitating an inclusive, solutions-oriented COP28. He outlined key initiatives, including the Etihad 7 programme and the Africa Green Investment Initiative, which exemplify the UAE's dedication to supporting renewable energy projects and climate action in Africa.

"These initiatives are a testament to our belief that effective climate action requires just and equitable energy transitions, supported by robust climate finance," he stated.

The Sheikh's speech highlighted the urgency of this decade in addressing climate change, underscoring the COP28 conference as a crucial opportunity to advance global climate action. 

"We aim to build trust and restore confidence among all parties in the negotiations, ensuring that the goals of the Paris Agreement are met," he added.

Key Ugandan entities, including the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, Uganda National Oil Company, Uganda Investment Authority, the Electricity Regulatory Authority, and the Uganda Development Bank, among others, attended the launch.

The Uganda Pavilion at COP28UAE is a sign of the collaborative efforts of nations like Uganda and the UAE. It symbolises a united front in the battle against climate change, highlighting the importance of international cooperation, policy action, and sustainable development for the well-being of future generations.