By KT Reporter
The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) has partnered with Makerere University to develop a national strategy to address climate and environmental disasters, which continue to claim lives across Uganda.
Rosette Byengoma, the Permanent Secretary at MODVA, says the ministry is taking significant steps toward tackling climate change and environmental threats through the development of a Climate Change and Environmental Security Strategy (CCESS).
The announcement was made during a consultative workshop between MODVA and Makerere University held at the Defence Intelligence and Security (DIS) headquarters in Mbuya. “The purpose of this consultative workshop is to integrate expertise from university professionals to collaboratively develop a strategy that is both inclusive and comprehensive,” said Byengoma.
She emphasized that the strategy is a forward-thinking initiative aimed at mitigating environmental threats that could compromise national security. “This strategy will play a key role in advancing sustainable growth and ensuring that the Ministry’s contributions to the future are impactful,” she added.
At least 13 Ugandans died two weeks ago in floods that swept through Kampala—just the latest in a string of disasters that routinely affect parts of the country including Mbale, Kasese, Bundibugyo, Kisoro, Manafwa, and Bududa during the rainy seasons.
In 2022, over 1,000 people reportedly died in Karamoja due to famine linked to climate change. These tragedies have motivated MODVA to explore more structured, science-based responses. Maj Gen Don Nabasa, Joint Staff Policy and Strategy, who represented the Chief of Joint Staff Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, said the UPDF remains committed to protecting Uganda across all domains—now including the environment.
“This initiative (CCESS) is a very important collaboration between academia and the military. As UPDF, we prioritise climate-smart practices, environmentally-smart operations, and improved disaster preparedness and response,” said Nabasa.
He noted that even though traditional security threats remain relevant, climate change and environmental degradation have emerged as “critical non-traditional threats” that risk undermining national security, causing economic instability, and triggering climate-induced migrations.
Nabasa stressed that CCESS will be particularly relevant to the UPDF, which operates on land, water, air, and space. “CCESS will provide a framework to address climate-related threats and ensure that military operations are conducted sustainably while mitigating environmental damage,” he said.
Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze from Makerere University praised the initiative and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment: “This collaboration is critical in propelling the country’s aspirations forward.” Brig Gen David Gonyi, Chief of Staff – Air Force and chairperson of the CCESS technical committee, said the strategy will help formalize the UPDF’s environmental interventions.
“The CCESS aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Uganda’s Vision 2040,” he noted, adding that it will “strengthen the UPDF’s longstanding role in environmental conservation and its collaboration with environmental bodies.”-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
