Farmer walking in his hot pepper field

Uganda climate change workshop

Past Event Sheraton Hotel, Kampala From to

Co-hosted by the IGC, the Ministry of Water and Environment, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, and Royal Holloway University of London, this event explores the opportunities for sustainable development and climate resilience in Uganda.

For any questions, please contact Maria Orjuela Pava via email: [email protected]

Registration

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Session I: Agriculture and climate resilience

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Agriculture is the backbone of Uganda's economy. However, climate change and deforestation disrupt weather patterns, leading to erratic rainfall and droughts that harm productivity and food security. Promoting climate-smart agriculture, agroforestry, and sustainable land management can enhance resilience and protect ecosystems. This session explores strategies and policies that integrate agriculture and forest conservation to mitigate climate change and foster sustainable growth in Uganda.

Session Chair:
- Jonhatan Lubega (SEATINI)

Speakers:
- Russell Morton (PhD Candidate, University of Michigan)
- Ameek Singh (PhD Candidate, LSE)
- Mohamed Abouaziza (Research Fellow, LSE)
- Peter Babyenda (Lecturer, Makerere University)
- Rehema Kahunde (Research Analyst, EPRC)

Coffee Break

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Roundtable I: Natural resource management to accelerate green growth

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Effective natural resource management is crucial for sustainable development, climate change mitigation, and community resilience in Uganda. This entails balancing economic growth with environmental conservation, addressing deforestation, soil erosion, and water resource depletion. This discussion highlights innovative practices, policy, and community-based initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable resource use.

Host/Moderator:
- Martin Fowler (Former Senior Agricultural Advisor, USAID).

Panel:
- Godwin Kamugisha (Manager Strategic Planning and Partnerships, NEMA)
- Richard Komakech (Principal Research and Innovations Officer, NEMA)
- Maureen Anino (Ministry of Water and Environment)
- Sam Mugume (Assistant Commissioner, MoFPED)
- Diana Kirungi (Research Associate, IITA)

Lunch

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Session II: Transport and Urbanization

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Inadequate infrastructure and inefficient urban planning exacerbate socioeconomic disparities and limit essential services for marginalized communities. Addressing these challenges requires approaches that prioritize sustainable urban development, integrated transport planning, and low-carbon solutions. This session analyzes the interplay between transportation, urbanization, and climate change in Uganda.

Session Chair:
- Nicholas Mukisa (National Renewable Energy Platform and Makerere University)

Speakers:
- Juliana Oliveira (Policy Economist, IGC)
- Jeanne Sorin (Chicago University)
- Miriam Katunze (Research Analyst EPRC/ Academic Consultant Victoria University Kampala)
- Angela Nshimye (AirQo)

Coffee Break

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Roundtable II: Green Finance and Carbon Markets

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Green energy is a cornerstone of sustainable development in Uganda, reducing carbon emissions, enhancing energy security, and driving economic growth. As the country seeks to expand its energy infrastructure, investing in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power is essential. These solutions offer a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, create jobs, improve public health, and reduce environmental degradation.

Host/Moderator:
- Vittorio Bassi (Lead Academic, IGC Uganda)

Panel:
- Mark Purdon (Professor, University of Quebec)
- Bob Munene (Assistant Commissioner, MoFPED)
- Mary Gorreti Nantongo (Lecturer, Makerere University)
- John Robert Okware (Country Director, ACELI)
- Sam Mugume (Assistant Commissioner, MoFPED).

Registration

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Session III: Pollution Management and Environmental Policy Actions

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Pollution threatens public health, natural resources, and overall productivity. Comprehensive environmental policies and effective regulatory frameworks focused on prevention, control, and mitigation are essential. Those can boost Uganda’s economic competitiveness, attract investment, and safeguard health. This session delves  into pollution management and environmental policy actions, highlighting the potential for green innovation and job creation.

Session Chair:
- Richard Komakech (Principal Research and Innovations Officer, NEMA).

Speakers:
- Mychaela Paetow (PhD Student, USC).
- Tommaso Porzio (Associate Professor, Columbia Business School).
- Godwin Kamugisha (Manager Strategic Planning and Partnerships, NEMA).

Session IV: Challenges for Firms and Workers

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Climate change affects firms’ operations and productivity across sectors, disrupting employment and exacerbating economic inequalities. Tackling this requires integrating climate resilience into business practices and workforce management. By enhancing adaptive capacities, promoting sustainable practices, and fostering collaboration between firms and workers, Uganda can unlock economic opportunities and promote inclusive growth.

Session Chair:
- Nhial Kuch (Country Economist, IGC)

Speakers:
- Jeremia Stadler (PhD Student, University of St. Gallen)
- Ija Trapeznikova (Associate Professor, Royal Holloway)
- Yasuka Tateishi (PhD Student, UCL)

Coffee Break

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Roundtable III: Green Energy for Sustainable Development

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Host/Moderator: Juan Pablo Rud (Professor of Economics, Royal Holloway)

Panel:
- Dr. Ruth Atuhaire (Makerere University, Energy Technology and Science Department).
- Dr. Brendah Akankunda (Lecturer, Makerere University).
- Peninnah Mbabazi (SEATINI).
- Nicholas Mukisa (National Renewable Energy Platform and Makerere University).

Keynote Speech and Lunch

Sheraton Hotel, Kampala

Speaker: Dr. Barirega Akankwasah (Executive Director, NEMA)