Climate change poses a significant threat to Uganda’s economic future, with projections showing it could cut growth by up to 3.1% by 2050. This could push more than 613,000 people into poverty and force 12 million into internal migration. The World Bank Group’s Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR) for Uganda, launched in Kampala, highlights these risks while offering strategies to turn climate challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth.
The report warns of serious economic impacts, including up to 2.4% loss in labor productivity from heat stress, risks to 21% of the electricity network, and annual road damages costing as much as $26 million. To address these challenges, it calls for a shift toward climate-resilient and low-carbon growth, with coordinated efforts across agriculture, energy, infrastructure, and urban development. A strong focus is placed on building resilience among youth and low-income populations, who are most vulnerable to climate impacts.
According to World Bank officials, Uganda has reached a critical juncture as the 14th most climate-vulnerable country globally. Climate action is therefore not just necessary but an opportunity to reshape the country’s development pathway. The CCDR provides a roadmap for integrating climate considerations into national policies and investments to ensure future growth is inclusive, sustainable, and climate resilient.
The report outlines four key intervention areas: creating climate-resilient jobs and services for vulnerable groups, advancing sustainable agriculture and natural resource management, investing in climate-smart infrastructure, and planning for climate-positive urbanization. These measures, supported by economy-wide reforms and strong private sector involvement, are seen as essential for safeguarding Uganda’s future.
Private investment will play a crucial role in scaling climate-smart solutions such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, e-mobility, green buildings, and solar irrigation. Such investments can strengthen food security, expand energy access, support sustainable cities, and create employment opportunities, while also driving economic growth.
The CCDR also emphasizes the importance of coordinated action among government, the private sector, communities, and development partners. Key priorities include implementing Uganda’s National Climate Finance Strategy, integrating climate goals into fiscal policies and procurement, strengthening disaster risk management, expanding access to green finance, and improving early warning systems. By pursuing these measures, Uganda has the potential to build a greener, more resilient, and more prosperous future.
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