Climate change is swiftly drawing global attention, with people at the grassroots increasingly bearing its harsh effects every day.
To highlight these pressing issues, communities in Uganda are taking action as part of the Climate Week of Actions.
In Rakai, Lwengo, and Sembabule districts in the Greater Masaka region, along with Buliisa district in Western Uganda, the march is fully championed by Green Faith, a community and faith-based organisation dedicated to environmental advocacy through various circles.
These processions aim to bring climate justice to the forefront of local development agendas, urging decision-makers to prioritise sustainable solutions to combat the escalating crisis.
In these districts, the effects of climate change are clear, with extreme weather patterns putting agriculture, water supply, and livelihoods at risk.
This is made worse by harmful human activities such as deforestation, overgrazing, wetland destruction, and poor waste disposal, all of which contribute to environmental damage.
According to Stephen Byamugisha, the leader of Rakai Circle Group, Rakai is one of the hardest-hit areas, where scorched soils and severe water shortages have left communities struggling.
Byamugisha said the farmers can no longer rely on their land to grow food or support livestock, leading to widespread hunger and economic hardship.
However, he adds, these challenges have pushed the district’s young generation to recognise that the fight against climate change is not just about the environment, but their survival and future prosperity.
“Water has become extremely scarce as rivers and water sources dry up. These problems are making life difficult for the people, especially farmers who need healthy soil and plenty of water to grow food and keep livestock alive,” he recounted.
without these key resources, families are struggling to make a living, feed their children, and support their communities.
He said that children in Rakai, and across the country, are particularly vulnerable to the consequences of climate change.
“As the next generation, their future is directly tied to what is happening now. So, by joining the fight for climate justice, they are taking a stand not just for the environment, but also for their livelihoods, education, and well-being,” he said.
The march showed how powerful youth-led action can be. It brought together students, activists, and members of the community to demand that local leaders take climate action seriously.
The children’s participation is meant to make sure climate change is a top priority, locally and nationally.
“For young Ugandans, becoming involved in climate action is about taking responsibility for their future,” Byamugisha added.
He said they can help create solutions that directly benefit their communities, like better farming techniques, water-saving practices, and using renewable energy.
These actions can help places like Rakai survive and thrive despite the challenges of climate change.
Country Director
According to Maxwell Atuhura, the Green Faith- Country Coordinator in Uganda, the Climate Week of Actions is held to remind the world a reminder that climate change is not a distant problem, but it’s something that’s happening now and widely affecting people’s lives.
For the youth and community members, he added, it’s an opportunity to take charge and work toward a future where their ideas and actions lead to a healthier, more sustainable world.
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