The Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEWK), organized by the Ministry of Water and Environment, is set to occur from March 17th to 21st, 2025. This year’s theme focuses on enhancing resilience and improving livelihoods through better water and environmental management, coinciding with key international days. The event aims to address Uganda’s growing environmental challenges, promoting regenerative practices and community empowerment to ensure sustainable development in vulnerable areas affected by climate change.
The Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEWK) is an essential annual event organized by the Ministry of Water and Environment through the Water Resources Institute. Initiated in 2018, UWEWK promotes sustainable socioeconomic transformation in Uganda by facilitating knowledge exchange, advocacy, and dialogue to enhance the management of water and environmental resources. The event has attracted significant participation from political leaders, local governments, and various stakeholders.
The upcoming UWEWK2025 will take place from March 17th to 21st, under the theme “Water and Environment Resources for Enhanced Resilience and Improved Incomes and Livelihoods.” This edition will coincide with International Forest Day, World Water Day, and World Meteorological Day, focusing on reviewing the outcomes of these global observances and their implications for Uganda’s environmental management efforts. As environmental challenges escalate, regenerative practices that heal ecosystems and enhance resilience are becoming crucial.
Uganda faces severe environmental issues exacerbated by climate change, including erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, and increased droughts and flooding. Vulnerable communities, particularly farmers, women, and children, bear the brunt of these changes. Crop productivity has declined, leading to food insecurity, especially in regions like Karamoja. Additionally, annual forest loss of 200,000 hectares intensifies flooding, jeopardizing livelihoods and infrastructure while contributing to waterborne diseases.
The Ugandan government, in collaboration with numerous partners, is taking proactive measures to address these challenges. The National Water and Sewerage Corporation is enhancing water supply and sanitation, particularly in underprivileged areas, while the National Forestry Authority promotes forest protection through policies aimed at reforestation. Uganda’s climate action plan prioritizes adaptation strategies across vulnerable sectors to uphold environmental sustainability and resilience.
Despite these initiatives, there is a pressing need to scale solutions to meet growing demands for climate resilience. Organizations like Regenerate Africa are pivotal, fostering regenerative practices and sustainability to facilitate a transition to a regenerative economy that benefits all stakeholders. Regenerate Africa focuses on community awareness and hands-on training in regenerative agriculture, particularly in districts around Lake Victoria.
Through demonstration farms, Regenerate Africa emphasizes sustainable farming techniques, including agroforestry and efficient irrigation methods, improving food security and biodiversity. The organization empowers farmers by equipping them with the knowledge to create resilient farming systems that adapt to climatic variations. “These sustainable practices have transformed our community,” states Namutebi Sylivia, LC 2 Women Representative.
As UWEWK2025 approaches, it presents a pivotal moment for Uganda to enhance its commitment towards sustainable environmental management and climate action. Urgent measures are needed to integrate climate-smart practices and engage communities in advocacy efforts. Collective action from government, civil society, and the private sector is essential to drive innovation and support strategies that ensure long-term resilience. Through these concerted efforts, Uganda can work towards a sustainable future where water and environmental resources are managed equitably, fostering a climate-resilient society.
Original Source: www.pmldaily.com
