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Kabale District Local Government Officials Sensitized on Conservation of Forests & Biodiversity

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By Jane Anyango

Over 50 officials from Kabale District Local Government have been sensitized on the need to protect the environment for sustainable livelihoods and the future generations.

The policy dialogue under the theme, “Forestry and Biodiversity: Addressing the challenges of Forest Degradation and enhancing Environment Management in Uganda”, was organized by the EfD-Mak Centre Uganda on 3rd November, 2021 at White Horse Hotel in Kabale District.

The meeting attracted participants ranging from Government Ministries and Agencies, NGOs, the private sector, politicians, Environmental police, civil society organizations and members of the Academia from Kabale and Makerere University.

The function was officially opened by the Kabale District Chairman (LCV) Nelson Nshangabasheija and also attended by the Vice Chairperson Miria Ankankwasa, the Chief Administrative Officer and Clerk to Council Gordon Manzi.  The function was also graced by the District Forestry Officer Benjamin Ariyo and the Crime Intelligence Officer for Environmental Police Protection Unit Sam Kyomukama.

Seated L-R: Mr. Benjamin Ario, Mr. Sam Kyomukama, Ms. Miria Ankankwasa, Mr. Nelson Nshangabasheija, Prof. Johnny Mugisha, Mr. Gordon Manzi and other officials at the EfD-Mak Policy Dialogue held on 3rd November 2021 in Kabale.
Seated L-R: Mr. Benjamin Ariyo, Mr. Sam Kyomukama, Ms. Miria Ankankwasa, Mr. Nelson Nshangabasheija, Prof. Johnny Mugisha, Mr. Gordon Manzi and other officials at the EfD-Mak Policy Dialogue held on 3rd November 2021 in Kabale.

The Deputy Director EfD-Mak Center Prof. Johnny Mugisha in his submission said that they have been conducting policy dialogues across the country and Kabale is one of the areas requiring awakening in as far as policy management and implementation of environmental issues is concerned.

“Kabale is unique from most of other parts of the country because of its landscape. It is characterized by high population mostly residing on steep slopes which must feed. There has been a compromise between environmental conservation and agricultural production to an extent that because food takes priority number one for a household, most of the environment has been encroached on including the fragile ecosystems.

 The steep slopes result into landslides and flooding in the bottom valleys and therefore, we found it prudent to come to Kabale and interact with different stakeholders including policy makers, district leaders, those practicing conservation of the environment like tree planters, such that we remind them on the benefits of the environment, its conservation and what we gain when we conserve it”, Prof. Mugisha explained.

Prof. Johnny Mugisha addressing participants during the EfD-Mak Policy Dialogue in Kabale.
Prof. Johnny Mugisha addressing participants during the EfD-Mak Policy Dialogue in Kabale.

Climbing beans, brewing waragi and mushrooming soft drinks impacting on the environment

Kabale used to grow the bush beans (short beans) until they became unproductive, research replaced them with high yielding climbing beans. These require a small area to yield highly and because they climb, they need to be staked.

Staking them needs some sticks which come from trees. Every household grows climbing beans but not every household has trees to get sticks from. So careless households who don’t have tree sources go and encroach on other peoples trees and they carelessly cut the branches.

Prof. Mugisha said the forest stand in Kabale district is highly threatened.

“There used to be significant forest cover. The estimation we have from National Forest Authority is that in the1990s, we had about 4.9 hectares of forest cover but after 25 years, by 2015, the forest cover had reduced to about 2.2 hectares indicating a 50% loss of the forest cover. If that trend is not checked, we are likely to have zero forest in some few years to come. The reason everybody must come on board is so that we do the planting, conservation and careful harvesting of the existing trees”, The Deputy Director said.

A section of participants attending the EfD-Mak policy dialogue in Kabale.
A section of participants attending the EfD-Mak policy dialogue in Kabale.

In his opening remarks, the district chairman Nelson Nshangabasheija thanked Makerere University for initiating the program to discuss how the district can protect the natural resources.

“The challenge here is brewing crude waragi and soft drink factories working near lakes and rivers. Our climate used to be very good but now, with these factories, they are damaging our natural resources.  As political heads in the district, we are trying to see how we can work together to protect the natural resources”, Nshangabasheija said.

Nshangabasheija emphasized that the district was planning to relocate the factories from the lake and river side and near wetlands to alternative areas. To regain the beauty of trees and lakes, and to reduce soil erosion, the district he said, is considering coming up with a bye-law compelling the population to plant three or more trees for one tree cut.

The Regional Crime Intelligence Officer for Environmental Police Protection Unit in Kigezi region Sam Kyomukama said among the six districts which make Kigezi region, Kabale is the worst hit in terms environmental degradation. Others are Rubanda, Rukiga, Kanungu, Rukungiri and Kisoro.

A participant contributes to the discussion during the meeting.
A participant contributes to the discussion during the meeting.

“About 90% of the wetlands in Kabale have been depleted and as we talk now, there is no intact wetland in the district. All wetlands were cultivated and are under Irish potatoes. Rivers have been encroached on and people are dumping in soil and, wherever you go to the site for enforcement, they have big people who threaten us. The encroachers are protected by politicians like Members of Parliament and Councilors making it difficult to execute our work”, Kyomukama said.

He said just as was the case in Kabale, forests in other districts were being threatened by deforestation to provide charcoal for cooking as a major fuel source .

Kyomukama also reported that all rivers in Kabale have been encroached on by agricultural activities up to the banks resulting to power blackouts whenever it rains as power has to be switched off to remove the silt from Maziba dam.

Kyomukama decried inadequate support to the unit which hinders effective movement to all districts saying, he currently moves on a motorcycle to carry out enforcement in the six districts.

Sam Kyomukama  Environmental Police Officer contributes to the discussion.
Sam Kyomukama Environmental Police Officer contributes to the discussion.

“In addition there are mushrooming factories of soft drinks including these ones called Babababa, Numi, Entare and they don’t have control. Another problem we have is waragi brewing done in wetlands where they divert rivers to work as coolants.

This is dangerous because they are using molasses and whenever molasses drops on grass, within three days, the grass is dry. These chemicals enter the rivers, rusting Maziba dam and killing mud fish and frogs in the rivers.

We are in touch with the Kabale District Police Commander and any time, we will storm, arrest and arraign culprits in courts of law.” The police officer warned.

Kabale District Forestry Officer Benjamin Ariyo said, the district does not have a gazetted reserve by government due to the recent partition of Rubanda and Rukiga districts where most of the forest reserves of the Mafuga area that covers over 1,500 hectares was taken by Rubanda district.

Kabale District he said, only relies on private  planters and given the nature of  the land tenure system of Kigezi region, most  of them are small holders apart  from a group called Uganda Agroforestry Network having over 150 hectares in Makanga area and  all covered with pinuspatular trees that are due for harvest.

District Forestry Officer Benjamin Ario speaks during the meeting.
District Forestry Officer Benjamin Ariyo speaks during the meeting.

As far as biodiversity is concerned, the forest officer said, the district has species richness in wetland complexes of Bunyonyi as well as North and South Kiruma, with over 312 species of birds like the grey crested crane that is being conserved by nature Uganda in collaboration with the Crane Foundation.

Ariyo explained that Kabale district has a record of over 149 plant richness species both indigenous and exotic, woody and non woody, stating that due to population explosion,infrastructural development and weak policies regarding to wetland use,  the biodiversity and forestry recovery in the  area has been greatly affected.

The forestry officer reiterated the challenge of getting a winning solution between wetland users and politicians, saying that most of them encourage people to remain in wetlands yet people were experiencing variations in climate conditions of the area.

“Initially during the month of June to August, you would enter Kabale and feel a different breeze but now we are uncertain, we don’t know when the rains are coming,when the sun is to shine, there are lots of changes in rain seasons, the dry spell goes up to April yet April and September used to be rainy seasons”, He said.

Ariyo underscored the need to restore forestry and vegetation cover within the district noting that due to population explosion, people are using resources unsustainably.

Climbing beans on stakes in one of the gardens.
Climbing beans on stakes in one of the gardens.

“For instance, there is a tree called black wattle, a hard wood tree that takes up to 35 years to mature, yet good for charcoal and firewood but due to its propagation means, it is hard to get it and its seedlings because it is being threatened.

There are mammals that are getting extinct especially the swampy rats. Those ones are already on the red list of the endangered species but it is all attributed to uncontrolled human activities within the district related to unsustainable resource use,” Ariyo stated.

The forest officer reported that although climbing beans are the only performing bean varieties within the district, they are the biggest problem to forest conservation.

He explained that for someone to produce beans, they need climbing sticks and they tend to use young eucalyptus sprouts, indigenous shrubs and small trees. These take a short time like three months yet collected sticks cannot work for three seasons because of being exposed to termites.

“You find that they are cutting down trees for two seasons per year leading to quick vegetation loss. If different varieties of beans can be developed by agriculturalists, we shall be able to conserve our trees. Agriculture does not only take away the trees, it also uses a lot of fertilizers and sprays chemicals which kill bees as pollinators. Someone who has been harvesting 100 avocados from his tree, is now harvesting 20-30 because of poor pollinators.”

Jane Anyango is a Principal Communication Officer at Makerere University

Mark Wamai

Agriculture & Environment

TORCH Project Living Lab Drives Clean Energy Innovation & Climate Action in Luwero

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Dr. Patrick Musinguzi, the TORCH Project PI, showcasing the Gas Chambers for measuring GHGs emitted from the soil and animal waste, a portable improved energy cooking stove, and a food warming basket. Towards a Clean Energy and Zero-Emission Society in East Africa: Strengthening Academic and Community Collaboration in Outreach, Training, and Research for Green Growth and a Healthy Environment (TORCH) Project Living Lab model project engagement, 4th May 2026 in Kawumu Village, Luwero District Uganda, East Africa with participation from Makerere University, BOKU University (Austria), Kabale University, academia, local communities, civil society, and international institutions.

By Ariho Modern, Tonny Kanyesigye and Tom Micah Matila

****TORCH (Towards a Clean Energy and Zero-Emission Society in East Africa) is a collaborative initiative designed to help communities respond to climate change through practical innovations, research, and inclusive partnerships. Implemented across Uganda, South Sudan, and Austria.

The TORCH Project’s Living Lab engagement in Kawumu Village, Luwero District demonstrated how collaboration among researchers, farmers, students, and development partners can accelerate the adoption of clean energy technologies while strengthening efforts to address climate change.

Held on 4th May 2026, the engagement brought together stakeholders from academia, local communities, civil society, and international institutions to explore practical, affordable, and locally driven solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting the use of clean energy.

The event underscored a growing shift toward community-centered innovation, where local knowledge and scientific research are combined to develop technologies that respond directly to the needs and realities of rural households.

Round table discussion with stakeholders at the Living Lab in Luwero. Towards a Clean Energy and Zero-Emission Society in East Africa: Strengthening Academic and Community Collaboration in Outreach, Training, and Research for Green Growth and a Healthy Environment (TORCH) Project Living Lab model project engagement, 4th May 2026 in Kawumu Village, Luwero District Uganda, East Africa with participation from Makerere University, BOKU University (Austria), Kabale University, academia, local communities, civil society, and international institutions.
Round table discussion with stakeholders at the Living Lab in Luwero.

“Knowledge shared here is not for the shelf; it is for our households, our farms, and our future,” said community host, Mr. Kayanja as he welcomed participants.

 At the centre of the discussions was the TORCH Project’s Living Lab approach-a participatory model that places communities at the forefront of innovation and decision-making.

Community-Driven Research and Innovation

Addressing participants, the TORCH Project Principal Investigator, also Senior Lecturer in the Department of Soil Science and Land Use Management at Makerere University, Dr. Patrick Musinguzi, emphasized that sustainable solutions can only be achieved when communities are active partners in the research process.

Prof. Phelix Businge Mbabazi, TORCH Coordinator at Kabale University sharing insights on community collaboration with academia. Towards a Clean Energy and Zero-Emission Society in East Africa: Strengthening Academic and Community Collaboration in Outreach, Training, and Research for Green Growth and a Healthy Environment (TORCH) Project Living Lab model project engagement, 4th May 2026 in Kawumu Village, Luwero District Uganda, East Africa with participation from Makerere University, BOKU University (Austria), Kabale University, academia, local communities, civil society, and international institutions.
Prof. Phelix Businge Mbabazi, TORCH Coordinator at Kabale University sharing insights on community collaboration with academia.

“Under this initiative, every voice matters,” Dr. Musinguzi said. “Farmers, students, and researchers are equal contributors. The solutions we develop must reflect the realities of the communities we serve.”

He noted that the project, supported by the Austrian Government, has established a strong regional network involving Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Busitema University, Kabale University, and the University of Juba, creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and collaborative innovation across East Africa.

Clean Energy Technologies developed

The event showcased a range of technologies designed to address household energy challenges while contributing to climate mitigation efforts. These included energy-efficient cookstoves, food-warming baskets, biogas systems, and solar-powered solutions, all of which have the potential to reduce reliance on traditional biomass fuels and lower carbon emissions.

Dr. Margeret Namugwanya from Kyambogo University sharing her views. Towards a Clean Energy and Zero-Emission Society in East Africa: Strengthening Academic and Community Collaboration in Outreach, Training, and Research for Green Growth and a Healthy Environment (TORCH) Project Living Lab model project engagement, 4th May 2026 in Kawumu Village, Luwero District Uganda, East Africa with participation from Makerere University, BOKU University (Austria), Kabale University, academia, local communities, civil society, and international institutions.
Dr. Margeret Namugwanya from Kyambogo University sharing her views.

Researchers also presented innovative methods for measuring environmental impacts. Demonstrations of greenhouse gas monitoring chambers and studies on methane production from livestock waste attracted significant interest from farmers eager to understand how agricultural practices can contribute to climate solutions.

“‘I never imagined cow dung could be this powerful,’ one farmer said after learning about its potential to be converted into renewable energy.”

Barriers to Adoption

The Living Lab also served as a platform for critical reflection on the barriers that continue to hinder the adoption of sustainable technologies. Participants identified affordability, cultural perceptions, and concerns about hygiene and maintenance as some of the key challenges facing wider uptake.

Mr. Andreas Bauer, from BOKU University sharing collaborative research in line with the TORCH project across East Africa. Towards a Clean Energy and Zero-Emission Society in East Africa: Strengthening Academic and Community Collaboration in Outreach, Training, and Research for Green Growth and a Healthy Environment (TORCH) Project Living Lab model project engagement, 4th May 2026 in Kawumu Village, Luwero District Uganda, East Africa with participation from Makerere University, BOKU University (Austria), Kabale University, academia, local communities, civil society, and international institutions.
Mr. Andreas Bauer, from BOKU University sharing collaborative research in line with the TORCH project across East Africa.

Expert Perspectives

Prof. Twaha Ali Basamba from the Department of Soil Science and Land Use Management at Makerere University cautioned that technological innovation alone is not enough to guarantee success.

“Technology must fit the people, not the other way around,” he said, emphasizing that solutions should be designed to be accessible, affordable, and culturally appropriate.

Representatives from partner institutions reaffirmed the importance of locally grounded innovation. Prof. Phelix Busigye Mbabazi of Kabale University underscored the value of cross-learning among Living Lab sites, while Dr. Margaret Namugwanya of Kyambogo University called for increased use of locally available materials in developing sustainable technologies.

Prof. Twaha Ali Basamba from the Department of Soil Science and Land Use Management at Makerere University. Towards a Clean Energy and Zero-Emission Society in East Africa: Strengthening Academic and Community Collaboration in Outreach, Training, and Research for Green Growth and a Healthy Environment (TORCH) Project Living Lab model project engagement, 4th May 2026 in Kawumu Village, Luwero District Uganda, East Africa with participation from Makerere University, BOKU University (Austria), Kabale University, academia, local communities, civil society, and international institutions.
Prof. Twaha Ali Basamba from the Department of Soil Science and Land Use Management at Makerere University.

“We must innovate with what we have,” she said, noting that imported technologies are not always suited to the long-term needs of local communities.

Mr. Andreas Bauer from BOKU University shared insights from the ongoing water quality research along River Mayanja, highlighting the importance of collaborative science in addressing environmental challenges. Meanwhile, Mr. Ochero Dickenz of Youth Go Green Uganda inspired participants with stories of climate action initiatives that have mobilized more than two million young people across the country.

Recommendations

By the end of the engagement, participants had developed a series of recommendations aimed at accelerating the adoption of clean energy technologies. These included strengthening community-based production of food-warming baskets, expanding access to affordable energy-saving stoves, improving hygiene practices, and enhancing monitoring and evaluation systems to measure long-term impact.

Dr. Patrick Musinguzi demonstrating how the Biogas system works in converting animal waste into clean energy for cooking. Towards a Clean Energy and Zero-Emission Society in East Africa: Strengthening Academic and Community Collaboration in Outreach, Training, and Research for Green Growth and a Healthy Environment (TORCH) Project Living Lab model project engagement, 4th May 2026 in Kawumu Village, Luwero District Uganda, East Africa with participation from Makerere University, BOKU University (Austria), Kabale University, academia, local communities, civil society, and international institutions.
Dr. Patrick Musinguzi demonstrating how the Biogas system works in converting animal waste into clean energy for cooking.

Living Lab Model, a Blueprint for Sustainable Development in Uganda

For many participants, the significance of the Living Lab extended beyond research and technology demonstrations. It represented a new model of development-one that empowers communities to co-create solutions to some of the most pressing environmental and energy challenges of the time.

“This is not just research; it is our future,” said one student participant.

As Uganda intensifies efforts to address climate change and expand access to sustainable energy, initiatives such as the TORCH Project are demonstrating the power of partnerships in turning research into practical action. Through its Living Labs, the project is creating spaces where innovation is tested, refined, and owned by the communities it is intended to serve.

Mr. Kayanja (The Host Farmer) demonstrating how mulching is vital in retaining water and reduce GHG emission from the soil. Towards a Clean Energy and Zero-Emission Society in East Africa: Strengthening Academic and Community Collaboration in Outreach, Training, and Research for Green Growth and a Healthy Environment (TORCH) Project Living Lab model project engagement, 4th May 2026 in Kawumu Village, Luwero District Uganda, East Africa with participation from Makerere University, BOKU University (Austria), Kabale University, academia, local communities, civil society, and international institutions.
Mr. Kayanja (The Host Farmer) demonstrating how mulching is vital in retaining water and reduce GHG emission from the soil.

With momentum continuing to build, stakeholders believe the TORCH Project’s Living Lab model could become a blueprint for sustainable development initiatives across Uganda and beyond-ensuring that communities are not merely beneficiaries of innovation, but active architects of a cleaner and more resilient future.

Group photo of all the members who attended the Living Lab community engagement. Towards a Clean Energy and Zero-Emission Society in East Africa: Strengthening Academic and Community Collaboration in Outreach, Training, and Research for Green Growth and a Healthy Environment (TORCH) Project Living Lab model project engagement, 4th May 2026 in Kawumu Village, Luwero District Uganda, East Africa with participation from Makerere University, BOKU University (Austria), Kabale University, academia, local communities, civil society, and international institutions.
Group photo of all the members who attended the Living Lab community engagement.

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Master’s Scholars Engage Lwengo and Rakai Communities to Inform Research Conceptualisation

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Prof. Isa Kabenge (Centre in white) with Masters Scholars under ACC and Officials at the Rakai District Local Government Administration Block during the reconnaissance visit held 5th-6th June 2026. Makerere University Master's Scholars under the Africa Climate Collaborative (ACC), an initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation, reconnaissance visit to Lwengo and Rakai districts in preparation of their academic research engagements, 5th-6th June 2026, Uganda, East Africa.

By Myres Ndyabawe

Makerere University Master’s Scholars under the Africa Climate Collaborative (ACC), an initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation, undertook a reconnaissance visit to Lwengo and Rakai districts in preparation of their academic research engagements.

The visit was intended to ensure that the research is informed by local realities, priorities, and perspectives, thereby enabling the scholars to undertake work that is responsive to and aligned with the needs of the communities it seeks to serve.

Accompanied by members of the ACC Program Delivery Team, Scholars engaged district technical staff, farmer cooperative representatives, and community members before visiting selected farmers across the two districts.  

Makerere University Master's Scholars under the Africa Climate Collaborative (ACC), an initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation, reconnaissance visit to Lwengo and Rakai districts in preparation of their academic research engagements, 5th-6th June 2026, Uganda, East Africa.

These interactions provided an opportunity to gain first-hand insights into the climate change-related challenges affecting local livelihoods and communities, thereby helping to inform the design and implementation of their research activities.

Lwengo District Agricultural Officer, Peter Bamwesigye welcomed the Africa Climate Collaborative staff and the Scholars in the district, pledging support for all initiatives that will be implemented in the district under the Africa Climate Collaborative.

“We want such good news and welcome such interventions that transform our communities.  As a district, we believe the research conducted by the students will bring innovations that will improve the lives of the people we serve.” Bamwesigye said.

Community Challenges Requiring Research and Innovation

Richard Ayesiga, the manager of Kyazanga Farmers’ Cooperative Society, which brings together 1,088 farmers, noted that prolonged dry spells and limited knowledge on climate resilience have reduced farmer productivity in the area, urging students to provide solutions to farmers through their research.

Makerere University Master's Scholars under the Africa Climate Collaborative (ACC), an initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation, reconnaissance visit to Lwengo and Rakai districts in preparation of their academic research engagements, 5th-6th June 2026, Uganda, East Africa.

In Rakai District, the Senior Agricultural Officer, Ivan Bwow, led the team on a field visit to Lake Kijjanebalola. He explained that the proliferation of invasive water weeds has disrupted fishing activities and restricted access to the lake by other users, adversely affecting livelihoods, food security, and household incomes in surrounding communities.

He further observed that some parts of Rakai District are affected by saline water, which limits the viability of irrigation. This challenge has contributed to increased encroachment on swamps and wetlands as communities search for alternative sources of water and productive land, placing additional pressure on fragile ecosystems.

The other challenges that were noted across the two districts include;

  1. Poor waste management
  2. Plastic pollution
  3. Crop pests and diseases
  4. Mis-use of artificial fertilizer that has affected soil health.
Makerere University Master's Scholars under the Africa Climate Collaborative (ACC), an initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation, reconnaissance visit to Lwengo and Rakai districts in preparation of their academic research engagements, 5th-6th June 2026, Uganda, East Africa.

Research and Innovation to Inform Climate Solutions

Research is a core requirement for the attainment of a Master’s degree at Makerere University. The Scholars, who receive comprehensive scholarships under the ACC to pursue Master’s degrees in various disciplines, are expected to undertake research in Lwengo and Rakai districts during their second year of study.

During the engagement, participants raised concerns about the common practice of researchers collecting data from communities without returning to share the findings and recommendations.

Makerere University Master's Scholars under the Africa Climate Collaborative (ACC), an initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation, reconnaissance visit to Lwengo and Rakai districts in preparation of their academic research engagements, 5th-6th June 2026, Uganda, East Africa.

Responding to these concerns on behalf of ACC, Mr. Antonny Tugaineyo, Principal Coordinator of the Climate Resilience Support Centre (CRSC), reassured stakeholders that the Program is committed to ensuring that research findings are disseminated to local communities and relevant stakeholders.

 He noted that the evidence generated will be used to inform policy development, strengthen decision-making, and support innovative solutions to climate-related challenges affecting Lwengo and Rakai districts.

“The fourth pillar of the Africa Climate Collaborative is Networks, Policy and Learning. Our work does not end with conducting research. We are committed to engaging stakeholders at all levels to ensure that the knowledge generated benefits the communities that contribute to and participate in the research process,” Mr. Tugaineyo said.

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Policy Brief: Strengthening Climate Resilience and Livelihoods in Uganda’s Refugee and Host Communities

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Makerere-Cambridge project Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) Workshop Participants, Kikuube district. The Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) through workshops project focused on the interlinked dimensions of climate variability, food security, livelihoods, and water availability across diverse ecological contexts, including lowland refugee-hosting areas and mountainous, flood-prone regions through collaborative partnership between Makerere University Kampala Uganda, East Africa, University of Cambridge, and Cambridge-Africa Programme, with financial support from the Mastercard Foundation and Cambridge-Africa.

Uganda’s refugee-hosting and vulnerable communities in Kyangwali (Kikuube district, part of former greater Hoima district) and Kasese district face severe risks from climate change, population pressure, and resource dependence, undermining livelihoods, food security, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) outcomes. The Makerere-Cambridge project Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) engaged communities through participatory research to identify adaptive practices, infrastructure gaps, and actionable strategies to address these issues.

Our findings are that integrated interventions including community training hubs for capacity building, climate-resilient infrastructure, and participatory resource governance can strengthen resilience, protect livelihoods, prevent potential conflicts, and support sustainable development.

More information: https://chart-cr.org/.

Key Messages for Policy

  • In Hoima District: Erratic rainfall patterns and prolonged dry spells are significantly affecting agricultural productivity and water availability, thereby threatening food security among refugees and vulnerable host communities.
  • In Kasese District: Frequent floods and landslides are causing widespread disruption to agriculture, damaging infrastructure, and compromising food security and WASH services, especially for refugees and vulnerable host populations.
  • Strengthening climate resilience requires combining infrastructure investments, community training, participatory governance, and livelihood support to address interconnected risks in food security, water, and sanitation.
  • Refugee and host communities already demonstrate adaptive practices such as soil conservation, intercropping, and water-efficient farming which can be scaled and reinforced through participatory learning platforms.
  • Women and children bear the brunt of water collection and household labor; inclusive strategies and equitable decision-making in WASH, agriculture, and resource management enhance both resilience and social equity.
  • Investments in climate-resilient infrastructure, integrated community hubs for knowledge exchange and capacity building, and participatory governance could strengthen adaptive capacity, secure livelihoods, prevent societal conflicts between communities and protect health, education, and sustainable development outcomes.

1. Background

Uganda hosts one of Africa’s largest refugee populations under a progressive policy framework that promotes inclusion and self-reliance. Within this context, Kyangwali Refugee Settlement in Hoima District accommodates approximately 155,000 residents, of whom 99.7% are refugees. Women and children constitute nearly 80% of the population, underscoring significant demographic vulnerabilities. Increasing population density, coupled with declining land availability per household, has intensified pressure on natural resources. This has contributed to environmental degradation and heightened exposure to recurrent droughts, thereby constraining agricultural productivity, worsening food insecurity, and increasing dependence on humanitarian assistance. The host communities suffer from the same environmental changes, and the fact that the refugee and host communities are managed separately add to suspiciousness between them that might lead to rising tensions and potential conflicts.

Similarly, Kasese District has an estimated 750,000 people who rely heavily on rain-fed subsistence agriculture, with over 85% of the population dependent on this livelihood system. The district is highly susceptible to climate-related hazards, including recurrent flooding, landslides, and droughts. These risks are particularly pronounced along River Nyamwamba and within the Kilembe mining areas, where environmental instability continues to undermine water and sanitation, infrastructure, disrupt livelihoods, and pose significant public health challenges. The convergence of climate variability, rapid population growth, and high dependence on natural resources creates a complex and reinforcing cycle of vulnerability affecting both refugee and host communities.

A section of river Nyamwamba, Kasese district. The Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) through workshops project focused on the interlinked dimensions of climate variability, food security, livelihoods, and water availability across diverse ecological contexts, including lowland refugee-hosting areas and mountainous, flood-prone regions through collaborative partnership between Makerere University Kampala Uganda, East Africa, University of Cambridge, and Cambridge-Africa Programme, with financial support from the Mastercard Foundation and Cambridge-Africa.
A section of river Nyamwamba, Kasese district.

2. Methodology

The project Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) through workshops was designed to generate evidence to these challenges and inform integrated policy and programming. The project focused on the interlinked dimensions of climate variability, food security, livelihoods, and water availability across diverse ecological contexts, including lowland refugee-hosting areas and mountainous, flood-prone regions. Implementation was undertaken through a collaborative partnership between Makerere University, the University of Cambridge, and the Cambridge-Africa Programme, with financial support from the Mastercard Foundation and Cambridge-Africa.

Workshop participants, Kasese district. The Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) through workshops project focused on the interlinked dimensions of climate variability, food security, livelihoods, and water availability across diverse ecological contexts, including lowland refugee-hosting areas and mountainous, flood-prone regions through collaborative partnership between Makerere University Kampala Uganda, East Africa, University of Cambridge, and Cambridge-Africa Programme, with financial support from the Mastercard Foundation and Cambridge-Africa.
Workshop participants, Kasese district.

The CHART-CR Project adopted a participatory and inclusive research approach, engaging stakeholders comprising refugees, host community members, representatives from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), and local government officials. Stakeholder selection prioritized gender balance, age diversity, and the inclusion of marginalized groups, including women, older persons, and persons with disabilities. Data collection employed included workshop discussions, focus group discussions, key informant interviews and field observations. This approach enabled the systematic capture of community perspectives alongside expert insights, generating context-specific, actionable evidence to inform policy and interventions aimed at strengthening climate resilience, food security, WASH systems, and sustainable livelihoods.

Workshop participants sharing climate change challenges, Kikuube district. The Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) through workshops project focused on the interlinked dimensions of climate variability, food security, livelihoods, and water availability across diverse ecological contexts, including lowland refugee-hosting areas and mountainous, flood-prone regions through collaborative partnership between Makerere University Kampala Uganda, East Africa, University of Cambridge, and Cambridge-Africa Programme, with financial support from the Mastercard Foundation and Cambridge-Africa.
Workshop participants sharing climate change challenges, Kikuube district.

Workshop participants sharing floods, and water related challenges, Kasese district. The Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) through workshops project focused on the interlinked dimensions of climate variability, food security, livelihoods, and water availability across diverse ecological contexts, including lowland refugee-hosting areas and mountainous, flood-prone regions through collaborative partnership between Makerere University Kampala Uganda, East Africa, University of Cambridge, and Cambridge-Africa Programme, with financial support from the Mastercard Foundation and Cambridge-Africa.
Workshop participants sharing floods, and water related challenges, Kasese district.

3. Climate Variability and Environmental Pressures Key Policy Issues

In Kyangwali, rainfall patterns have become increasingly erratic, with delayed rainy seasons and prolonged dry spells disrupting traditional planting and harvest cycles and significantly reducing yields. Deforestation associated with refugee settlement expansion has reduced soil moisture retention, biodiversity, and microclimate regulation, further undermining agricultural productivity.

Sweet potato garden destroyed by drought in Kyangwali settlement scheme. The Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) through workshops project focused on the interlinked dimensions of climate variability, food security, livelihoods, and water availability across diverse ecological contexts, including lowland refugee-hosting areas and mountainous, flood-prone regions through collaborative partnership between Makerere University Kampala Uganda, East Africa, University of Cambridge, and Cambridge-Africa Programme, with financial support from the Mastercard Foundation and Cambridge-Africa.
Sweet potato garden destroyed by drought in Kyangwali settlement scheme.

In Kasese, floods from River Nyamwamba and recurring droughts threaten homes, crops, and infrastructure, displacing households and reducing agricultural yields. Both districts experience environmental degradation that exacerbates vulnerability to climate shocks.

Section of houses which were destroyed by river Nyamwamba floods in Kasese district. The Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) through workshops project focused on the interlinked dimensions of climate variability, food security, livelihoods, and water availability across diverse ecological contexts, including lowland refugee-hosting areas and mountainous, flood-prone regions through collaborative partnership between Makerere University Kampala Uganda, East Africa, University of Cambridge, and Cambridge-Africa Programme, with financial support from the Mastercard Foundation and Cambridge-Africa.
Section of houses which were destroyed by river Nyamwamba floods in Kasese district.

Food Security and Livelihood Constraints

Shrinking per capita land provision, declining seed quality, limited access to farm inputs, and weak storage infrastructure constrain crop diversification and household self-reliance in both districts. Post-harvest losses and limited market access reduce household income, heightening vulnerability. Refugee-host interactions, including land rental, knowledge exchange, and market engagement, enhance resilience but might also create perceptions of inequality due to differences in institutional support.

Water Access and availability Challenges

Communities face water scarcity and contamination from communal usage, poor sanitation, and agricultural runoff. Women and children bear the primary burden of water collection, often traveling long distances, which reduces labor productivity and school attendance. In Kasese district, low latrine coverage, open defecation, and inadequate waste management increase exposure to waterborne diseases. Floods and landslides on Kasese further compromise water quality and availability and thus increase health risks.

Boys fetching water from river Nyamwamba, Kasese district. The Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) through workshops project focused on the interlinked dimensions of climate variability, food security, livelihoods, and water availability across diverse ecological contexts, including lowland refugee-hosting areas and mountainous, flood-prone regions through collaborative partnership between Makerere University Kampala Uganda, East Africa, University of Cambridge, and Cambridge-Africa Programme, with financial support from the Mastercard Foundation and Cambridge-Africa.
Boys fetching water from river Nyamwamba, Kasese district.
Girl fetching water from river Nyamwamba, Kasese district. The Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) through workshops project focused on the interlinked dimensions of climate variability, food security, livelihoods, and water availability across diverse ecological contexts, including lowland refugee-hosting areas and mountainous, flood-prone regions through collaborative partnership between Makerere University Kampala Uganda, East Africa, University of Cambridge, and Cambridge-Africa Programme, with financial support from the Mastercard Foundation and Cambridge-Africa.
Girl fetching water from river Nyamwamba, Kasese district.


Adaptive Capacities

Despite these challenges, communities demonstrate strong local knowledge and adaptive practices, including informal water management, soil conservation, intercropping, and water-efficient farming techniques. Participatory approaches, joint training in climate-smart agriculture, and collaborative livelihood initiatives foster social cohesion and knowledge sharing between refugees and host communities. Existing leadership structures, community awareness, and partial infrastructure provide a foundation for scaling resilience interventions.

4. Conclusions and Policy Directions

Climate variability, population pressure, and resource dependence significantly undermine livelihoods, food security, and Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) outcomes in Kyangwali and Kasese. Communities possess valuable experiential knowledge, adaptive practices, and social cohesion; however, structural constraints including weak infrastructure, limited financing, low technical capacity, and fragmented coordination – limit the effectiveness of local strategies.

To strengthen resilience, integrated interventions are required that bridge humanitarian response and long-term development, institutionalize participatory and gender-sensitive approaches, build human, social, and institutional capital, and align local priorities with technical expertise and policy frameworks. Key policy measures include:

  • Establish and strengthen integrated community resilience centers that serve as hubs for capacity building, knowledge exchange, and practical training in climate-smart agriculture, environmental conservation, food storage, water management, and market access. These centers should also promote inclusive learning, skills development, and cooperative enterprises that support both refugee and host communities in developing sustainable livelihoods.
  • Invest in Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Upgrade WASH systems, construct protected wells, boreholes, piped water networks, and communal storage facilities, and restore riverbanks through tree planting and drainage maintenance to reduce soil erosion and contamination.
  • Promote Community-Led Resource Governance: Support participatory water, sanitation, and agricultural management, including monitoring systems for adaptive learning, equitable resource allocation, and gender-sensitive decision-making.

These combined strategies will enhance adaptive capacity, secure sustainable development outcomes, and protect livelihoods, food security, health, and education for Uganda’s most vulnerable populations.

5. Call to Action

The experiences and lessons learnt from Hoima (Kyangwali Refugee Settlement and adjacent host communities) and Kasese (refugee and host communities living around River Nyamwamba) under the CHART-CR project highlight the urgent need for integrated, locally informed, and coordinated resilience strategies. By aligning technical expertise, policy frameworks, and community knowledge, stakeholders can enhance adaptive capacity, secure sustainable development outcomes, and protect livelihoods, food security, health, and education for Uganda’s most vulnerable populations. Further details about the CHART-CR project, its research, and outcomes can be accessed at https://chart-cr.org/

About the Authors

Dr. Gabriel Karubanga Lecturer, Makerere University, Uganda. The Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) through workshops project focused on the interlinked dimensions of climate variability, food security, livelihoods, and water availability across diverse ecological contexts, including lowland refugee-hosting areas and mountainous, flood-prone regions through collaborative partnership between Makerere University Kampala Uganda, East Africa, University of Cambridge, and Cambridge-Africa Programme, with financial support from the Mastercard Foundation and Cambridge-Africa. Dr. Gabriel Karubanga Lecturer, Makerere University, UgandaDr. Irit Katz, Assoc. Prof. of Architecture, University of Cambridge, UK. The Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) through workshops project focused on the interlinked dimensions of climate variability, food security, livelihoods, and water availability across diverse ecological contexts, including lowland refugee-hosting areas and mountainous, flood-prone regions through collaborative partnership between Makerere University Kampala Uganda, East Africa, University of Cambridge, and Cambridge-Africa Programme, with financial support from the Mastercard Foundation and Cambridge-Africa. Dr Irit Katz, Assoc. Prof. of Architecture, University of Cambridge, UKMr. Frank Mafumo, PhD student, Makerere University, Uganda. The Communities of Hosts and Refugees Transitioning to Climate Resilience (CHART-CR) through workshops project focused on the interlinked dimensions of climate variability, food security, livelihoods, and water availability across diverse ecological contexts, including lowland refugee-hosting areas and mountainous, flood-prone regions through collaborative partnership between Makerere University Kampala Uganda, East Africa, University of Cambridge, and Cambridge-Africa Programme, with financial support from the Mastercard Foundation and Cambridge-Africa. Mr. Frank Mafumo, PhD student, Makerere University, Uganda

Important Contacts

  1. Dr. Gabriel Karubanga, Lecturer, Department of Extension and Innovation Studies, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda. Tel. +256782929971; email: gabriel.karubanga@mak.ac.ug
  2. Dr Irit Katz, Associate Professor of Architecture and Urban Studies, Department of Architecture, University of Cambridge; email: ik300@cam.ac.uk
  3. Mr. Frank Mafumo, PhD student, Department of Extension and Innovation Studies, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda. Tel. +256774171519; email: mafumofrank2020@gmail.com

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