Ugandan MPs Advocate for Child Inclusion in Regional Climate Action

Lawmakers in Uganda have emphasized the critical need to include children in regional climate change deliberations. This call came during the inaugural East African Community (EAC) Children Summit for Climate Change, hosted by the Ugandan Parliament.

The summit’s primary goal, according to Hon. Susan Abeja, Chairperson of the Uganda Parliamentary Forum for Children (UPFC), was to urge East African governments to actively involve young people in developing climate change solutions and policies. Hon. Abeja stressed that children, despite contributing the least to the climate crisis, are among the most severely affected by its consequences, including floods, droughts, and environmental degradation.

“Children must not only be protected from the effects of climate change, they must be meaningfully involved in shaping the solutions,” stated Hon. Abeja. She highlighted that the youth are already experiencing the harsh realities of environmental damage, underscoring their stake in finding effective interventions.

Participants, including Members of Parliament from the EAC, the EAC Deputy Secretary General, and development partners, engaged in discussions under the theme “Children Leading East African Integration: Climate, Peace and Prosperity.” Hon. Ivan Kyeyune, MP for Nakasongola County, lauded the initiative, challenging older generations who have often prioritized commercial interests over environmental protection.

Representatives from UNICEF Uganda urged MPs to make tangible commitments for their constituencies and to establish youth climate action groups. The Ministry of Water and Environment, through Dr. Flavia Byekwaso, affirmed the government’s commitment to investing in climate-resilient infrastructure for schools and public facilities, ensuring access to clean water and renewable energy, and importantly, consulting children in policy formulation.

The summit concluded with a tree-planting exercise aimed at environmental restoration, reinforcing the commitment to a sustainable future. These efforts underscore the growing recognition that the voices and experiences of children are indispensable in addressing the urgent challenges of climate change.

Source: Parliament of Uganda