Members of Parliament in Uganda have raised concerns about the impending floods and heavy rains following a heat wave. Hon. Lawrence Biyika urges proactive government measures for disaster preparedness. Additional calls for addressing climate change effects through adaptation, subsidies for clean energy, and public guidance on agricultural vulnerabilities were discussed.
The Chairperson of the Climate Change Committee, Hon. Lawrence Biyika, has expressed concern over imminent heavy rains and floods following the current heat wave in Uganda. He urged the government to implement proactive mitigation measures to prepare for potential disasters rather than provide relief post-occurrence.
In response to the Minister of Water and Environment, Hon. Beatrice Anywar’s statement regarding the weather patterns, Biyika highlighted the risks posed by the prolonged dry spell on agriculture and the economy. He called for adaptive strategies to combat the adverse effects of climate change, including measures against deforestation and wetland degradation.
Hon. Christine Kaaya, representing Kiboga District, emphasized the need for the public to receive guidance on the consequences of the dry season. She requested a detailed government report indicating anticipated reductions in agricultural yields and healthcare implications.
Kalungu West MP, Hon. Joseph Ssewungu, advocated for subsidies on clean energy to mitigate the reliance on charcoal and curb deforestation. He noted the high costs associated with gas and other energy alternatives, urging the government to lower these expenses to protect the environment.
The Minister assured that the government has entered into agreements with gas suppliers to subsidize prices by 40 percent. Hon. Anywar indicated that the ongoing heatwave is expected to decrease by the end of March 2025, coinciding with the arrival of the rainy season. She explained that Uganda typically experiences high temperatures during the dry season, especially from December to February.
The urgency expressed by Ugandan Members of Parliament regarding the impending floods serves as a call for immediate government action to mitigate climate impacts. With the emphasis on agriculture, environmental protection, and clean energy subsidies, the discussions highlight the pressing need to prepare for the upcoming rainy season. Proactive adaptation measures are essential to safeguard the economy and public health against future climate-related challenges.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
