By KT Reporter
Leaders and residents in Yumbe District have expressed deep concern over the prolonged scorching temperatures, worsening water crisis, and escalating environmental degradation in the area. Currently, the district is experiencing an intense heatwave, with daytime temperatures soaring between 35 to 38 degrees Celsius—nearing the 40-degree levels recorded in neighboring South Sudan. Community leaders attribute the extreme weather conditions to widespread deforestation and rampant bush burning.
The alarming situation has prompted local leaders and religious institutions, including Madi West Nile Diocese, to call for urgent environmental conservation measures. During the Tree Sunday celebrations at Wolo Parish in Aringa Archdeaconry, Godfrey Nasa, the Diocesan Secretary of Madi West Nile Diocese, emphasized the need for heightened awareness on tree planting and environmental protection as a means to combat climate change.
Yumbe District has suffered severe heat waves this season, leading to widespread discomfort, vegetation loss, and the depletion of critical water sources. Many boreholes, wells, and tributaries have dried up, forcing residents to walk long distances in search of water.
AbdulTwalib Asiku, Yumbe District LC5 Chairman, noted that the district’s growing population has intensified pressure on the environment, with many people cutting trees for firewood and farming, further worsening the climatic conditions. He revealed that plans are underway to distribute tree seedlings once the rainy season begins to restore the environment.
Sam Achaga Vigason, former Speaker of Odravu Sub County, highlighted that uncontrolled charcoal burning and indiscriminate tree cutting have not only led to agricultural losses but have also triggered destructive rainfall patterns.
However, while many locals support tree-planting initiatives, they stress the urgent need for immediate interventions to address the worsening water crisis and rheat waves heatwaves affecting their daily lives.
As Uganda marks Water and Environment Week 2025, leaders are calling for concerted efforts to conserve natural resources for enhanced resilience, improved livelihoods, and long-term environmental sustainability-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
