Kampala Youth Demand Climate Action as Environmental Crisis Worsens
By Nexio News
KAMPALA, Uganda — Young activists, journalists, and local leaders in Uganda’s capital are sounding the alarm over the escalating climate crisis, calling for urgent action to combat environmental degradation and extreme weather events.
At a recent youth-led climate governance dialogue in Kampala, participants highlighted the devastating effects of erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts, and worsening urban flooding—all linked to climate change and poor environmental policies.
A City Under Threat
Uganda’s forest cover is shrinking at an alarming rate of 2% per year, while wetlands—once covering 15% of the country—have dwindled to just 7-10%. These natural buffers, crucial for absorbing carbon and preventing floods, are vanishing due to unchecked urban expansion and pollution.
Steven Mayombwe, Makindye Division Council’s Environment Secretary, urged citizens to take responsibility.
“Climate governance isn’t just for governments—it starts with each of us,” he said. “Drought and floods don’t discriminate. If we don’t act now, everyone will suffer the consequences.”
Media’s Role in Climate Awareness
Wadulo Arnold Mark, a journalist with Uganda Broadcasting Corporation, stressed the need for better climate reporting.
“The media must educate the public on these threats,” he said. “But we also need stronger policies and accountability. Citizens must demand action from leaders while adopting greener habits.”
He warned against relying solely on foreign aid, advocating for homegrown solutions to Uganda’s environmental challenges.
From Talk to Action
Participants proposed practical measures, including community clean-ups, stricter enforcement of wetland protections, and sustainable urban planning. Mubaraka Haroun, a Sudanese attendee, emphasized that laws alone won’t solve the crisis without public cooperation.
Loy Nakyobe of Green Planet Voices challenged young people to lead by example.
“Before blaming corporations or politicians, ask yourself: What am I doing?” she said. “Poor waste disposal worsens floods. Small changes in our daily lives can make a big difference.”
Many admitted gaps in climate education, with some millennials only now grasping the severity of the crisis.
A Call for Innovation
Ideas like electric vehicles, neighborhood recycling programs, and environmental action days gained traction. Experts warned that without immediate steps, Uganda could face more disasters—landslides, water shortages, and deadly floods.
Chris Bulime from the World Health Organization noted the unprecedented speed of climate change.
“Human activities—deforestation, pollution, reckless construction—are accelerating what should take millennia,” he said.
Youth Leading the Charge
Despite the grim outlook, participants left with a renewed commitment. Many pledged to cut plastic use, plant trees, conserve water, and push for greener policies.
“Action starts with us,” Nakyobe reminded the crowd. “We can’t wait for others to save our planet.”
As Kampala’s youth mobilize, their message is clear: The time for debate is over. The time for action is now.
— Reported by Nexio News
