By Richard Onapatum
Kotido, Uganda – Nakere Rural Women Activists (NARWOA), in partnership with Mercy Corps and funded by the Austrian Development Cooperation, has concluded a successful three-day climate change awareness campaign in Kotido District.
The campaign, which took place in Nakepelimoru SubCounty, North Division, and the baby Sub County Longaroe drew over 500 community members, equipping them with practical tips on disaster preparedness and climate-resilient practices.
Christine Lokiru, Kotido Natural Resource Officer, set the tone for the campaign, emphasizing the devastating effects of climate change on local communities. “Climate change is real, and its impacts are felt across our district. Rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of droughts and floods threaten our livelihoods,” Lokiru warned.
Lokiru stressed the importance of collective action in addressing climate change, urging government, civil society, and community members to work together. “We must recognize the critical role each stakeholder plays in climate mitigation,” she added.
Olal Joel, the District Forestry Officer, built on Lokiru’s remarks, discussing early warning signs of climate change, such as heavy rains, strong winds, and intense sunshine. Joel emphasized the importance of monitoring weather patterns and developing contingency plans to minimize the impact of climate-related disasters.
Achieng Josephine, Community Development Officer, shared strategies for disaster preparedness and response mechanisms. Josephine highlighted the need for community-led initiatives and inclusive planning, ensuring that vulnerable groups are not left behind.
Janet Ouma, Agricultural Extension Worker, focused on cultural practices, preventive measures, and alternative adaptation strategies. Ouma emphasized the importance of climate-resilient agriculture practices and sustainable land management, promoting innovative farming techniques to enhance food security.
Hellen Akello, Senior Assistant Secretary Subcounty Chief, addressed the disproportionate effects of climate change on women and the importance of empowering women in climate decision-making. Akello stressed the need for gender-responsive climate action, recognizing the critical role women play in community resilience.
James Adupa, NARWOA’s Programme Manager, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to empowering rural women and communities to combat climate change. “By working together, we can build resilience and promote sustainable livelihoods,” Adupa emphasized.
The campaign culminated in the development of a community action plan for climate change adaptation and resilience. Participants from Veronica Youth Group (Girl Child) CCLAP, Akaupangican Youth Group, Nakepelimoru Women Peace Forum, and others contributed to the plan, which includes promoting climate-resilient agriculture practices, enhancing disaster preparedness and response, and supporting climate change research and advocacy.
The partnership between NARWOA, Mercy Corps, and the Austrian Development Cooperation made the campaign possible.
The three-day campaign reached over 500 community members, with 100 participants attending the Nakepelimoru meeting. The campaign’s success underscores the power of collective action in addressing climate change.