By Joseph Mary Buwule
ARUA CITY, Uganda – The Mayor of Arua City, Alionzi Lawrence, popularly known as Dangote, has called for practical and locally driven solutions to address climate change challenges in the West Nile sub-region.
Speaking during an engagement organized by ACODE Uganda and WENDA with private sector stakeholders, Alionzi emphasized the importance of translating climate discussions into concrete actions that directly benefit communities.
The meeting focused on advancing private sector investment in climate action across West Nile, bringing together stakeholders to explore opportunities for sustainable development and environmental resilience.
Alionzi commended the organizers for convening what he described as a timely and important dialogue, noting that climate change continues to pose significant challenges to livelihoods, agriculture, and economic development in the region.
“I encouraged participants to pursue practical and localized solutions to our climate challenges. Our communities need action-driven interventions, not armchair strategies or ivory-tower speculation,” Alionzi said.
He stressed that meaningful climate action requires collaboration among government institutions, development partners, the private sector, and local communities to implement solutions tailored to local realities.
The engagement highlighted the growing role of the private sector in financing and supporting climate adaptation and mitigation initiatives, particularly in regions vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change.
Alionzi also pledged his commitment to supporting the implementation of resolutions arising from the meeting. He expressed readiness to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that agreed-upon actions translate into tangible results for the people of West Nile.
“I pledge my support in implementing the resolutions from the meeting and working with all stakeholders to build a more climate-resilient West Nile,” he said.
The dialogue forms part of broader efforts to mobilize investment and strengthen partnerships aimed at promoting sustainable development and enhancing climate resilience across the West Nile sub-region.
Stakeholders at the meeting underscored the need for increased investment in climate-smart technologies, sustainable land management practices, and community-based adaptation initiatives to safeguard livelihoods and support long-term economic growth.
As climate change continues to impact communities across Uganda, leaders and development partners are increasingly advocating for practical interventions that deliver measurable results and strengthen resilience among vulnerable populations.