By Andrew S. Kaggwa – Climate Journalist | 16 February 2006
Ugandan climate activists have warned they will take to the streets of Kampala in protest at what they describe as government inaction over worsening floods.
Heavy rains in recent months have left parts of the capital submerged, disrupting transport and sanitation. According to Kampala City Council records, rainfall in January was nearly 40% above the seasonal average, overwhelming drainage systems built decades ago.
“Due to problems caused by climate change, as citizens of Uganda we have decided to form a network of environment defenders to speak on behalf of citizens,” said Barnabas Tugumisirize, coordinator of the newly formed Climate Activists Network.
He pointed to recurring outbreaks of malaria and cholera in flood‑hit neighbourhoods. Ministry of Health figures show that cholera cases in Kampala rose by 22% in 2005 compared with the previous year, while malaria remains the leading cause of hospital admissions during rainy seasons.
The group says its protest is intended to highlight insufficient funding for climate adaptation projects. “Our organization is yet to secure funding and a stable source of income,” added Fiona Masika, the network’s legal officer.
Uganda’s National Environment Management Authority has previously acknowledged gaps in financing, noting that less than 0.5% of the national budget is allocated to climate resilience programmes.
The activists insist that without urgent investment, Kampala’s growing population—now estimated at 1.5 million—will remain vulnerable to floods and disease.
