Uganda turns climate crisis into opportunity for sustainable development

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Far from being only a threat,climate change represents a historic opportunity for Uganda. The new Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR),published by the World Bank,highlights how decisive action could transform climate risks into engines of innovation,green growth,and inclusive development.

Without urgent measures,the report warns Uganda could face a 3.1% drop in economic growth by 2050,with more than 12 million people displaced internally. Yet,it also lays out a roadmap for turning climate vulnerability into resilience and prosperity. “Climate action is not just essential,it offers Uganda the opportunity to redefine its development trajectory,” said Qimiao Fan,World Bank Country Director for Kenya,Rwanda,Somalia,and Uganda.

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A roadmap for green growth

The CCDR identifies priority interventions that can unlock investment and create new opportunities. Uganda can strengthen social protection systems and foster green jobs for young people,positioning its youth to lead in emerging climate-resilient sectors.

In agriculture,solar-powered irrigation,low-emission livestock systems,and clean cooking technologies can ease pressure on natural resources while boosting productivity and food security.

Expanding renewable energy,electric mobility,and sustainable mining of critical minerals positions Uganda as a strategic player in the global energy transition.

Meanwhile,integrating climate risks into urban planning will allow Uganda to design greener,more inclusive,and competitive cities.

“Private sector investment in climate-smart agriculture,renewable energy,and green buildings can boost food security,expand energy access,create jobs,and fuel economic growth,” emphasized Mary Porter Peschka,Regional Director at the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

Climate leadership as a competitive advantage

The report stresses that Uganda has a unique chance to attract international green finance,accelerate technological innovation,and gain new market access—provided that climate considerations are embedded in fiscal policies,public procurement,and regulatory frameworks.

Strengthening early warning systems and real-time climate data,while expanding access to carbon markets,green finance,and affordable insurance,could position Uganda as a regional leader in climate resilience. Instead of slowing progress,climate change can serve as the catalyst for a greener,more prosperous,and inclusive future—if government,private sector,and communities seize this moment together.