The Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Climate Change (UPFCC) has entered into a new partnership with the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) and Climate Change Hub International to strengthen climate governance, enhance legislative capacity, and improve coordination among stakeholders.
The Memorandum of Understanding, signed on March 19, 2026, in the presence of key partners including the Civil Society Budget Advocacy Group (CSBAG) and the Women in Extractives Energy Network Uganda, is expected to deepen Parliament’s role in addressing climate change through advocacy, oversight, and access to technical expertise.
UPFCC Chairperson, Hon. Christine Nakimwero, described the agreement as timely, noting that it comes at a transitional moment as the country prepares for a new Parliament. She said the initiative will help equip incoming legislators with the knowledge and platforms needed to effectively engage in climate-related discussions at all levels.
Kiboga East MP, Hon. Keefa Kiwanuka, welcomed the collaboration, saying it will strengthen Parliament’s legislative, budgeting, and oversight roles. He emphasized the importance of translating climate discussions into real action at the grassroots, suggesting pilot projects in areas such as waste management and carbon footprint reduction.
Worker’s Representative, Hon. Abdul Byakatonda, raised concern over the country’s shrinking forest cover, now estimated to be below 10 percent. He warned that continued deforestation and encroachment on wetlands threaten agriculture and food security, urging stakeholders to adopt clear targets, including increasing forest cover to 25 percent by 2032.
PSFU Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Asiimwe, highlighted the critical role of the private sector in driving climate solutions. He revealed plans to establish a Carbon Credit Secretariat aimed at supporting dialogue and positioning Uganda as a low-carbon economy with climate-smart enterprises reaching local communities.
Clinton Mawanda, Programmes Director at Climate Change Hub International, called for a stronger focus on innovation, noting that climate action presents significant employment opportunities, particularly in carbon markets and emissions management.
Meanwhile, Julius Ankunda, Executive Director of CSBAG, said the partnership will enhance accountability and strengthen Uganda’s ability to access global climate financing. He added that continued budget monitoring and evidence-based advocacy will be key in ensuring government delivers on its climate commitments.
