Uganda Secures $49.5 Million Grant for Climate Change Adaptation in Cattle Corridor

The Government of Uganda has announced a new initiative to support livestock farmers in the country’s cattle corridor, with the construction of water points aimed at mitigating the impact of climate change.

This development comes after Uganda secured a $49.5 million grant from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), which will help address the ongoing challenges faced by farmers due to climate-related droughts.

Denis Mugaga, Head of the Climate Finance Unit in the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, revealed the exciting news following his return from COP29 in Azerbaijan. He stated that the grant from the GCF, along with additional support from the Adaptation Fund and the Belgian government, will facilitate vital climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in Uganda.

“The $49.5 million grant from the Green Climate Fund will go a long way in helping our livestock farmers access water, especially in areas that have been severely impacted by prolonged droughts,” Mugaga said. “This is a critical step in reducing the losses farmers have been experiencing due to the changing climate.”

The cattle corridor, which spans several districts in Uganda, has faced severe water shortages, which have in turn affected the livelihoods of livestock farmers. The new water points will provide sustainable water sources, easing the strain on farmers and ensuring the well-being of their herds.

Mugaga also highlighted that global climate funding goals have been significantly raised, with the new target set at $250 billion, up from the previous $100 billion. While this increase presents an opportunity for developing nations like Uganda, he emphasized the need for these countries to build the capacity to access and implement such funding effectively.

“While the new global funding goal offers more resources, it’s vital that developing countries, including Uganda, build the necessary capacity to not only access these funds but also implement projects that can have a real impact on reversing the adverse effects of climate change,” Mugaga explained.

He went on to reassure Ugandans that the country is well-positioned to benefit from this funding. “Uganda has developed the necessary strategies, policies, and institutional capacity to attract and manage international climate finance. Our focus is on ensuring these funds benefit ordinary Ugandans, especially those most affected by climate change, and helping to reverse its impacts,” Mugaga said.

This announcement marks a significant step towards climate adaptation in Uganda, with the government committed to improving resilience in vulnerable regions and enhancing livelihoods through sustainable solutions. As the climate crisis continues to pose challenges globally, Uganda’s efforts serve as a model for other developing nations to strengthen their climate resilience strategies.