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Study finds that 86% of Ugandans are worried about the effects of climate change

“Ugandan Citizens Sound the Alarm: Climate Change is Already Here”

According to a recent research brief released by Twaweza, a majority of Ugandan citizens are expressing growing concerns about the impact of climate change on their daily lives. The brief, titled “A burning planet? It’s already happening: Ugandan citizens’ opinions and experiences of the climate crisis,” is based on data collected from 2,762 respondents in the sixth round of calls to the second Sauti za Wananchi panel, conducted between October 25 and November 25, 2023.

The findings reveal that most citizens believe that the climate is deteriorating, with seven out of ten reporting a decline in agricultural yields in recent years. Additionally, securing basic necessities for households has become more challenging, according to the majority of respondents.

The effects of climatic or environmental changes are being felt at both the household and community levels, with 82% of respondents reporting impacts at the household level and 83% at the community level. These effects are more prevalent in rural areas, among poorer households, and those reliant on agriculture for their livelihoods. Low crop yields and food scarcity are the most commonly reported issues, with damage to roads also being a significant concern at the community and national levels.

In terms of mitigation strategies, planting trees is the most recommended action, with 52% of respondents endorsing this suggestion and 45% claiming to have already undertaken tree planting activities. Deforestation is identified as a major cause of climate change by 70% of respondents, highlighting the importance of tree protection and planting efforts.

When it comes to assigning blame for climate change, half of citizens believe that rich countries should bear the majority of responsibility, while a significant majority (68%) support the idea that those accountable for climate change should shoulder the burden of adapting to its effects.

Despite the focus on local actions, it is important to note that the scientific consensus attributes climate change primarily to the carbon emissions of industrialized nations. While deforestation in East Africa may have some impact on local weather patterns, the cumulative carbon dioxide emissions from African countries are minimal compared to emissions from wealthier nations. This highlights the need for global cooperation in addressing climate change.

Violet Alinda, Country Lead for Twaweza in Uganda, emphasized the vulnerability of Uganda to the effects of climate change and the importance of citizens acknowledging their role in addressing the crisis. By actively participating in negotiations and decisions related to climate change, Ugandans can contribute to global efforts to combat this pressing issue.

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