Environmental advocates have called on the Ugandan government to intensify public sensitization on the dangers of climate change, as the country faces increasing environmental degradation fueled by rapid population growth, deforestation, and limited investment in climate action.
According to Article 245 of the 1995 Constitution of Uganda, the government is mandated to protect and preserve the environment, manage it for sustainable development, and promote environmental awareness.
Despite these provisions, climate change remains a growing threat, largely driven by human activity and inadequate policy enforcement.
With Uganda’s population projected to surge from 42 million in 2025 to an estimated 72 million by 2040, environmentalists are warning that without urgent intervention, the country could face severe consequences including food insecurity, prolonged droughts, and increased disease outbreaks.
Data from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics shows a sharp rise in population since 1980, when the country had only 12.6 million people.
Doryn Akankwasa, a climate advocate and campaigner for tree planting, emphasized the critical need for increased awareness and better funding for climate-related initiatives.
“In rural areas, people cut down trees mostly for agriculture, firewood, and charcoal. In urban areas, deforestation happens to pave way for buildings and infrastructure,” Akankwasa explained.
“The problem is compounded by the fact that most of our leaders do not prioritize climate conservation, and this is reflected in the meager budget allocations to the environment ministry.”
She urged the government to take a more proactive role in educating citizens on the consequences of deforestation and other environmentally harmful practices.
“If we don’t act now, Uganda will face increased hunger and displacement due to climate shocks. I urge the government to promote sustainable land use practices such as agroforestry and reforestation,” Akankwasa added.
Akankwasa also called for a national transition to renewable energy sources like solar, which can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from industries, transport, and waste.
She stressed the importance of tree planting as a natural buffer against climate change.
“We should be planting trees like eucalyptus, mango, orange, mahogany not just for environmental protection but also for their economic value,” she noted.
The appeal comes at a time when global climate indicators show rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and shrinking forest cover.
Environmentalists say raising public awareness, especially through media campaigns, school programs, and community dialogues, is essential to changing mindsets and promoting sustainable practices.
Akankwasa reaffirmed that environmental conservation is not the sole responsibility of the government.
“It’s everyone’s responsibility to protect the environment. Whether you’re a policymaker, a teacher, or a farmer, we all have a role to play in building a cleaner, safer Uganda,” she noted.
As Uganda moves toward Vision 2040 and the Sustainable Development Goals, activists warn that ignoring environmental protection could derail national progress and lead to long-term economic and social instability.