By Richard Onapatum
Kotido, Uganda – Nakipelimoru Subcounty in Kotido District has on Tuesday 24th, September, 2024 hosted a climate change awareness meeting, organized by Nakere Rural Women Activists (NARWOA) in partnership with Mercy Corps and funded by the Austrian Development Cooperation.
The event, held under the Climate Change Leaders Advancing Peace (CCLAP) project, aimed to strengthen women’s resilience and adaptive capacity to climate change. Over 100 participants attended, including local youth and women’s groups, government officials, and community leaders.
James Adupa, NARWOA’s Project Manager for CCLAP, emphasized community involvement in addressing climate change. “We must work together to build resilience and adapt to the changing climate,” he stated.
Olal Joel, Natural Resource Officer, highlighted early warning signs and information sources on climate change effects. Community Development Officer Achieng Josephine discussed disaster preparedness and response mechanisms.
Agricultural Extension Worker Janet Ouma focused on cultural practices, preventive measures, and alternative adaptation strategies. Senior Assistant Secretary Subcounty Chief Hellen Akello addressed gender impacts and the need for gender-responsive climate action.
Participants from Veronica Youth Group (Girl Child) CCLAP, Akaupangican Youth Group, Nakapelimoru Women Peace Forum, and others contributed to a community action plan for climate change adaptation and resilience.
This initiative demonstrates NARWOA, Mercy Corps, and the Austrian Development Cooperation’s commitment to supporting climate-resilient communities in Uganda.