In 2024, Uganda embarked on an ambitious initiative to mobilise communities in Kaabong, Kalungu, Kibaale, and Pader districts as part of the LIFE-AR initiative. From May to October, a district-wide effort was launched to raise awareness, encourage participation, and empower communities to take ownership of climate adaptation.
These activities connected people at the district, sub-county, and parish levels, driving local action and engagement in the fight against climate change.
Strategic Planning: The Foundation of Success
The success of Uganda’s community mobilisation stemmed from meticulous planning and a phased approach. In April, a “training of trainers” equipped district technical staff with the knowledge needed to lead the effort. Every detail was carefully organized, with concept notes and budgets approved to ensure consistency. Engagement began at the district level, targeting sub-counties based on criteria such as climate vulnerability and gender-based violence. The mobilization then extended to the parish level, where the election of Parish Climate Change Committees (PCCCs) will allow communities to take charge of identifying priority investments to meet their climate adaptation needs.
Inclusive Engagement: Reaching Every Community
Uganda’s outreach was not limited to formal meetings—it involved a wide array of strategies to engage different groups. From radio talk shows to community gatherings, the message was spread across various channels, with content translated into local languages for greater accessibility. The one-week mobilization period for PCCC elections saw a remarkable turnout of 350-450 people per community, ensuring representation for women, youth, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and marginalized groups. The high level of participation underscored the community’s dedication to addressing climate challenges.
Building Local Resilience: A Collaborative Effort
As community mobilization unfolded, district-wide climate risk and vulnerability assessments were initiated, led by district and sub-county officials in partnership with parish chiefs. These assessments will provide crucial insights into the specific climate challenges in each district, helping PCCCs prioritize adaptation efforts. Training for PCCCs will further empower them to conduct parish-specific assessments and guide climate funding toward locally identified needs, strengthening resilience from the ground up.
A Model for Sustainable Climate Action
Despite challenges like poor weather and insecurity in regions such as Karamoja, Uganda’s initiative has been a resounding success. Local governments, with support from the national team, ensured transparency and minimized political interference, maintaining the integrity of the process. The broad collaboration between government, civil society, and communities has laid the foundation for long-term resilience. Uganda’s community-driven approach to climate adaptation offers a powerful example of how coordinated efforts can empower communities to address climate change adaptation.
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