- Climate change is real and is happening
- Majority of people survive on agriculture
Image: AAIU
Youth in Northern Uganda, Apac district in particular say it is high time that the government deliberately consider investing enough in programs that targeting climate change mitigation and adaptation.
These say, climate change is real and is happening day by the however the sad part of it, activities that are leading to change in climate are being committed by humans.
They made the remarks while observed the Climate justice week of Action. The week was celebrated with different activities which among include a three day training where young people were equipped with appropriate knowledge on mitigating and adapting to climate change.
Other activities were, a community dialogue that took place at the Mayor’s Gardens in Apac Municipal Council.
The event organized by Action Aid International Uganda (AAIU) in partnership with Apac Local Government commenced with a march through the city streets led by the youth from various parts of the country and area leaders a move aimed to raise awareness about the significance of climate justice.
‘’Time has come for the government to proactively invest in adaptation and mitigation programs to combat climate change’’. Said Ms. Sheila Apiny, the regional program coordinator Action Aid International Uganda –AAIU in Northern Uganda.
Ms. Apiny also asked the government to consider merging the Parish Development Model (PDM) with climate change initiatives.
‘While implementing PDM program, Government need to identify those groups of young people who are doing things in regard to climate change mitigation and adaptation like planting trees, swamps and wetland protection among others’’ she stressed, adding Apac district was once bordered by swamps and trees, which have now been cleared for various human activities. And as a result of climate change, the district is now one of those always hit by prolonged droughts and floods.
She also emphasized that this situation can be reversed, if the government provides alternatives such as agro ecology, which allows individuals to engage in agricultural practices without disrupting the existing ecosystems.
On his part, Peter Odur, the municipal mayor cited the growing population as a key factor contributing to environmental destruction.
He said, that since majority of people survive on agriculture, they end up encroaching on wetlands and clearing forests for agriculture and settlement among others.
“Most of the natural water sources have dried up, because of too much heat. Our piped water coverage is still very low being a rural municipality, compelling many residents to walk long distances,” said Grace Aguti, the Principal Community Development Officer for the Apac Municipal Council.
Aguti noted that the municipal council and district at large faces a lot of challenges due to the deforestation and destruction of swamps.
She stressed that women, as primary caregivers, face serious challenges during long drought periods, which often result in a lack of water. Adding that in many cases, this situation compels them to travel significant distances to obtain water and firewood, often resulting in disputes with their partners