The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has pledged to scale up its response to climate change and health emergencies across the semi-arid Horn of Africa, unveiling a project aimed at enhancing regional preparedness and resilience.
Speaking at the official launch of the Preparedness and Pandemic Response (PREPARED) project in Kampala, Joselyn Bigirwa, Head of the IGAD Mission in Uganda, described the initiative as a timely and essential step to protect vulnerable communities from the growing threats of climate change, pandemics, and cross-border health risks.
“The increasing frequency and complexity of public health emergencies in our region demand a coordinated, forward-looking approach,” Bigirwa told delegates. “This project is not just timely, it is essential.”
The Kampala meetings brought together health ministers, technical experts, and representatives from wildlife, environment, and animal health agencies.
Participants highlighted the importance of a One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health to address interconnected risks more effectively.
Bigirwa praised Uganda’s longstanding role in regional health leadership, noting the Ministry of Health’s support in hosting the summit and past collaborations, including COVID-19 response support, strengthening medical referrals at border points, and cross-border surveillance projects with Kenya and South Sudan.
IGAD has also supported climate-related initiatives in Uganda, including a tree-planting drive in partnership with the Ministry of Lands and the Climate Change Department. More than 5,000 seedlings, water tanks, and energy-saving stoves have been distributed to promote environmental education and resilience among women and youth.
Infrastructure investment is another priority. Earlier this year, a 62-kilometre cross-border road linking Uganda and South Sudan, valued at $400,000, was launched to boost trade, peacebuilding, and climate adaptation.
The PREPARED project will focus on strengthening surveillance systems, building health workforce capacity, improving data sharing, and fostering regional cooperation.
Bigirwa acknowledged the support of partners including the World Health Organization, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the Global Fund.
“As IGAD, together with our partners, we are laying the foundation for a safer, healthier, and more united region,” she said.
“This is not just a promise but a firm commitment to stand firm on climate change and health security.”
The semi-arid Horn of Africa faces some of the world’s most pressing climate and health challenges, with droughts, floods, and epidemics regularly crossing borders.
IGAD hopes the new programme will help member states strengthen resilience and readiness before the next crisis strikes.