Why climate change demands urgent action from policymakers, communities

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OPINION

By Maureen Namubiru

Uganda is increasingly vulnerable to the devastating impacts of climate change.

Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and environmental degradation are already threatening food security, public health, and the stability of local economies.

While the country has developed robust climate and energy policies, the implementation gap remains glaring, leaving households and communities dangerously exposed.

One of the most pressing challenges is Uganda’s continued reliance on biomass energy, which accounts for over 85% of household consumption.

This dependence fuels deforestation, accelerates biodiversity loss, and undermines our commitments to reduce carbon emissions.

Without deliberate and targeted interventions, Uganda risks entrenching poverty while worsening its environmental crisis.

The way forward is clear. First, community transition programs must be strengthened to provide rural and urban households with affordable renewable alternatives such as solar home systems and clean cookstoves. Second, sustainability education should be mainstreamed into schools, universities, and vocational institutions, building a generation of environmentally conscious citizens.

Finally, stricter enforcement of environmental regulations is critical to curb illegal deforestation while promoting reforestation initiatives.

Uganda stands at a critical crossroads. Prioritising household-level energy transitions and scaling up renewable energy access will not only align national policies with global commitments but also safeguard the livelihoods of millions of citizens. The time for urgent, coordinated action is now.

The writer is an MBA Student, Makerere University Business School