Bridging the Divide in Climate Action: The Case of Uganda
By Namusaazi Christine & Natalie Sifuma
Uganda is a country defined by agriculture, and at the heart of the country’s rich produce are women. Ugandan women play a pivotal role in sustaining their communities, yet as climate change poses unprecedented challenges, they are often left behind or ignored in efforts to build climate resilience and sustainability.
The exclusion of women in rural areas where internet access and education are limited means that we are far off the journey to an equitable future. But a question that lingers is how we can change the tide and put these women front and centre while enhancing their resilience to the impact of climate change.
Image Credit: Farm Africa
Let’s begin by recognising that Ugandan women in rural areas confront a unique set of challenges from limited access to information and resources to facing the brunt of climate change impacts on their farming practices. Recognising and addressing these challenges is the first step towards building inclusive solutions.
In understanding this unfortunate reality, solutions can be drawn out by exploring resources available and how these can be leveraged to support these women. For instance community based workshops and training programs can be initiated. These initiatives should aim at educating women in rural areas – not just in Uganda – about climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies, providing them with the knowledge needed to safeguard their livelihood. Establishing local support networks that share traditional wisdom and sustainable farming practices further strengthens their resilience.
Acknowledging the constraints of limited internet access and education, it becomes crucial to utilise inexpensive but accessible communication methods. Community radio broadcasts, mobile outreach programs, and participatory workshops have been known to effectively disseminate information for a myriad of health and development projects in rural areas. In this case they would be powerful methods to expand awareness and provide women with the tools they need to be better prepared to navigate the challenges posed by climate change.
Partnerships for development are also propellers to inclusion and an equitable future. Success lies in collaborative efforts between non-governmental organizations, government agencies, civil society groups and local communities. These partnerships should focus on sustainability and inclusivity ensuring that no woman is left behind in the fight against climate change.
The inclusion of Ugandan women farmers and generally women farmers in rural areas is not just a necessity but a moral imperative. By implementing inclusive and considerate strategies, we can bridge the climate change divide and empower women in rural areas. As advocates for change, it’s our collective responsibility to ensure that every woman, regardless of her access to education and internet, stands resilient in the face of a changing climate.
About The Authors
Namusaazi Christine is a dedicated advocate for women’s empowerment serving as founder of a dynamic organization She Unit Uganda, committed to fostering positive change and a country director for Women of Africa Uganda. Ambassador for SHE Changes Climate. A catalyst for positive change and driving force in the realm of women’s empowerment and environmental advocacy.
Natalie Sifuma is a Kenyan communications specialist working to empower women in all their diversity. She leverages the art of storytelling for social change and works with impact-driven organisations working at various nexuses, but with inclusion at the heart of their activities. She is the Head of Communications at SHE Changes Climate.
