PANAFRICAN CLIMATEUSTICE ALLIANCE

Gregory University,
Uturu - Nigeria

AFRICA
CLIMATECHANGEFU N DCOLLABORATIVE CLIMATE ACTION FOR SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT: THE CASE OF NDCs IMPLEMENTATION IN UGANDA
African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS)TECHNOPOLICY BRIEF NO. 75
Nicholas OzortĞŶƚůĂŶĚDƵŚĂƟĂŚ
Alfred Nyambane

Collabora ve Climate Ac on for
Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa onin Uganda

Nicholas Ozor
Wentland Muha ah
Alfred Nyambane

African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS)AFRICA
CLIMATECHANGE
FUND

The African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) is atransdisciplinary network of researchers, policymakers, private
sector actors and the civil society promo ng the genera on,
dissemina on, use and mastery of Science, Technology andInnova ons (STI) for African development, environmental
sustainability and global inclusion. In collabora on with likeminded ins tu ons, ATPS provides pla orms for regional andinterna onal research and knowledge sharing in order tobuild Africa’s capabili es in STI policy research, policymaking
and implementa on for sustainable development.
Published by the African Technology
Policy Studies Network (ATPS)
P. O. Box 10081, 00100- GPO,
Nairobi, Kenya©2024
ISBN: 978-9966-124-59-3

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Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

Table of Contents
About the Project ....................................................................................... iv
About Africa Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS)............................ vi
Acknowledgement...................................................................................... vii
Key Messages............................................................................................. viii
1. Introduc on ......................................................................................... 1
2. Ra onale for Stakeholder Par cipa on in NDC implementa on ........ 3
3. Methodology ....................................................................................... 6
4. Major Findings...................................................................................... 6
5. Conclusion............................................................................................. 13
6. Policy Recommenda ons..................................................................... 14
References............................................................................................ 16
ATPS Technopolicy Brief Series ............................................................ 17

Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Ugandaiii

About the Project
The Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs), with it’s condi onal anduncondi onal commitments, are key by-products of the Agreement andrequire all the countries to spell out their intended ac ons, to address climatechange over a ﬁve year period in terms of adapta on, mi ga on, and meansof implementa on as well as opportuni es arising therefrom and sustainable
development co-beneﬁts for the con nent. Despite the Paris Agreement providing
li le guidance on what and how climate change adapta on would be includedin the NDCs, most African NDCs highlight a number of cross-cu ng strategies
to address their mi ga on ambi ons as well as their adapta on needs. Thisis purblind considering the con nent is already dealing with increased severity
and frequency of climate risks and hazards due to its geographical posi oning,
overreliance on climate-sensi ve produc on sectors such as agriculture,
tourism, resource, and infrastructure deﬁcit, and the limited adap ve capacityof the people.
The African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS), in partnership with
the Pan-African Climate Jus ce Alliance (PACJA) and the West African Green
Economics Development Ins tute (WAGEDI), secured funding from the African
Development Bank (AfDB) through the African Climate Change Fund (ACCF) to
implement the “Building the Capacity of Selected sub-Sahara African Countries
to Eﬀec vely Measure Progress in their Na onally Determined Contribu ons’
Implementa on using Tracking Tools and Indexes” project aimed at enhancing
the capacity of selected sub-Saharan African countries to eﬀec vely monitor
and report on their Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs). The selected
countries include Botswana, Cote d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia,
Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The primary
goal is to develop and u lise tracking tools and indexes that will enable thesecountries to measure their progress in NDC implementa on accurately. Thisini a ve builds upon earlier collabora ons among ATPS, PACJA, and WAGEDI,
which involved the development of NDC implementa on monitoring andtracking tools in eight sub-Saharan African countries. The lessons learned fromthese earlier projects, as well as the networks and capaci es already established,
will provide a solid founda on for the current project. The collabora on aims toensure that par cipa ng countries can monitor their NDC progress and compare
their performance with other countries and regions in Africa.

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Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
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The project seeks to address a signiﬁcant gap in the capacity of sub-SaharanAfrican countries to track and report on the implementa on of their NDCs. The
ATPS operates through a network of Na onal Chapters in 30 countries, which
includes 27 African and 3 Diaspora chapters. These Na onal Chapters are led
by Focal Persons who provide intellectual and administra ve leadership at thecountry level. By leveraging this established network, the project aims to train
NDC implementa on focal persons and champions who will use the tracking andmonitoring tools developed through this ini a ve.

Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Ugandav

About Africa Technology Policy Studies Network(ATPS)The African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) is a transdisciplinary
network of researchers, policymakers, private sector actors and civil society
promo ng the genera on, dissemina on, use and mastery of Science,
Technology and Innova ons (STI) for African development, environmental
sustainability and global inclusion. The ATPS has over 5,000 members and 3000
stakeholders in over 51 countries in 5 con nents with ins tu onal partnerships
worldwide. We implement our programs through members in na onal chaptersestablished in 30 countries (27 in Africa and 3 Diaspora chapters in Australia, theUnited States of America, and the United Kingdom). In collabora on with likeminded ins tu ons, the ATPS provides pla orms for regional and interna onal
research and knowledge sharing in order to build Africa’s capabili es in STI policy
research, policymaking and implementa on for sustainable development.

viCollabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

Acknowledgement
The African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) and its Partners PanAfrican Climate Jus ce Alliance (PACJA) and West African Green Economic
Development Ins tute (WAGEDI) express our sincere gra tude to all individuals
and organiza ons who contributed to the study on the implementa on of
Uganda’s Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs). We are also thankful tothe various stakeholders from government agencies, civil society organiza ons,
the private sector, and local communi es led by the Uganda ATPS Na onal Chapter
Coordinator for their invaluable insights and feedback. Their ac ve par cipa on
and collabora on have been instrumental in shaping a comprehensive andinclusive approach to climate ac on in Uganda. Special thanks to the project
team from all the partnering ins tu ons. Lastly, we acknowledge the ﬁnancial
and technical support provided by the African Development Bank (AfDB) throughits African Climate Change Fund (ACCF), without which this policy brief would
not have been possible.

Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Ugandavii

Key Messages
 Uganda’s successful implementa on of its Na onally Determined Contribu ons(NDCs) demonstrates the power of an enabling policy environment, inclusive
stakeholder engagement, robust ins tu onal coordina on, strategic climate
ﬁnance mobiliza on, and community-led adapta on eﬀorts.
 The posi ve impacts achieved by Uganda, including the expansion of renewableenergy, adop on of climate-resilient agriculture, ecosystem conserva on,
enhanced disaster preparedness, and interna onal recogni on, highlight the
profound poten al of collec ve ac on and collabora ve eﬀorts in driving
sustainable development.
 Con nued progress requires sustained commitment from policymakers
to strengthen policy frameworks, foster cross-sectoral coordina on, build
capacity, and priori ze data management and monitoring systems for evidencebased decision-making.
 Ac ve engagement and ownership from diverse stakeholders, including civilsociety, the private sector, academia, and local communi es, is crucial for
tailoring climate ini a ves to local contexts and mee ng the unique needs ofvulnerable popula ons.
 Interna onal collabora on, knowledge-sharing, and sustained support fromdevelopment partners through climate ﬁnance, capacity-building ini a ves,
and best prac ce transfer are vital for achieving Uganda’s NDC goals andcontribu ng to global climate ac on.

viii Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

1. Introduc on
The impacts of climate change pose a serious threat to Uganda, a na on whose
economy and people heavily rely on climate-sensi ve sectors like agriculture,
water resources, and natural ecosystems (McNamara and Nsubuga, 2022). As
a party to the Paris Agreement, Uganda has demonstrated its commitment
to tackling climate change by submi ng an ambi ous Na onally Determined
Contribu ons (NDCs) (Bakh ari, 2018). Uganda’s NDCs outline targets to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 22% by 2030 compared to business-asusual scenarios (Irish Aid, 2017). Key emission reduc on ini a ves cut acrossvital sectors including energy, forestry, wetlands, and waste management. On
adapta on, the Uganda NDC priori zes building resilient agricultural systems,
strengthening meteorological monitoring capabili es, and promo ng sustainable
land use and natural resource management (Kaggwa et al., 2023).
Realizing these climate goals necessitates a comprehensive approach thatengages the exper se, resources, and ac ve par cipa on of all stakeholders.
Broad-based stakeholder engagement is essen al for several reasons: Firstly,
tapping into diverse knowledge is crucial. Stakeholders from various sectors
including government, private sector, academia, civil society, and communi espossess unique contextual insights that can enrich climate policies andimplementa on strategies. Their involvement promotes knowledge sharing andfacilitates the development of locally-tailored solu ons.
Secondly, eﬀec ve stakeholder coordina on is vital in mobilizing resources
for climate ac on. By bringing together stakeholders, we can unlock ﬁnancial,technical, and capacity-building support from various sources to drive climate
ac on on the ground. Given the substan al investment required, this mul stakeholder resource convergence is cri cal for achieving meaningful progress.
Thirdly, par cipatory policy design enhances ownership among stakeholders.
This bo om-up approach cul vates stakeholder ownership over climate changeinterven ons, crea ng the enabling ground for public acceptance and sustainedcommitment necessary for achieving long-term impact. Lastly, stakeholder
involvement in monitoring and repor ng mechanisms promotes accountability,transparency, and trust in Uganda’s climate change governance framework. By
ac vely engaging stakeholders in these processes, we can ensure accountability
for climate ac ons and build trust among stakeholders and the broader public.

Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

1Against this backdrop, the purpose of this policy brief is to map out Uganda’s
climate change stakeholder landscape while iden fying opportuni es,
barriers and strategic recommenda ons for op mizing their roles in NDC
implementa on. Drawing from a comprehensive stakeholder analysis, insights
will guide decision-makers, development partners and stakeholders to unlock
the full poten al of par cipatory climate ac on planning and delivery. Catalyzing
inclusive stakeholder engagement can steer Uganda towards low-emission
climate-resilient development.

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Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
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2. Ra onale for Stakeholder par cipa on in
NDC implementa on
The cri cal importance of broad stakeholder par cipa on in the implementa on
of NDCs under the Paris Agreement, especially for countries in Sub-SaharanAfrica (SSA) like Uganda, cannot be overstated. Several key reasons necessitate
engaging all stakeholders in Uganda’s NDC implementa on eﬀorts. Firstly,aligning climate ac ons with na onal development priori es is paramount1.
Many SSA countries, including Uganda, has ly developed their NDCs withoutcoherence to their na onal development plans and aspira ons. Involving
diverse stakeholders from government, private sector, civil society, and local
communi es can ensure that Uganda’s climate ac ons are aligned with broader
na onal development goals, thereby addressing poten al conﬂicts or trade-oﬀs(Rodriguez, 2021). Secondly, mobilizing resources and capacity is crucial. Like
many developing countries in the region, Uganda faces ﬁnancial, technological,
and capacity constraints in addressing climate change challenges across sectors
like energy, agriculture, and infrastructure (Auma and Badr, 2022). Stakeholder
engagement facilitates resource mobiliza on, knowledge sharing, and capacity
building by leveraging the exper se and resources of various actors.
Further to the above, promo ng transparency and accountability is essen al
for eﬀec ve governance. Stakeholder par cipa on in monitoring, repor ng,
and veriﬁca on (MRV) processes enhances transparency, accountability, andpublic trust in Uganda’s climate change governance framework. Addi onally,
facilita ng policy coherence is vital for a streamlined implementa on . Uganda
has exis ng climate change-related plans and strategies, as well as sectoralplans that contribute to NDC implementa on2. Coordina ng eﬀorts among
stakeholders can foster policy coherence, ensuring the smooth integra on ofclimate ac ons across diﬀerent levels and sectors.
Several issues in Uganda highlight the urgency of ac on from all stakeholders.
For instance, limited progress in NDC planning is evident, with a UNDP survey
indica ng that many countries, including Uganda, had not yet started planningor were in ini al consulta ons for NDC implementa on as of 2016 (United
Na ons Development Programme, 2016). Broad stakeholder engagement1h ps://thecommonwealth.org/news/blog-climate-ac on-and-sustainable-development-aligning-paris-agreement-and-agenda-2030
2 h ps://globalnaps.org/issue/policy-coherence/
Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development: 3
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

can accelerate the planning process and provide valuable input. Adapta on
challenges pose signiﬁcant concerns, par cularly for a highly vulnerable country
like Uganda. Extensive stakeholder involvement is necessary to address climate
risks in sectors such as agriculture, water resources, and natural ecosystems.
Similarly, Uganda’s NDC targets emission reduc ons in the energy sector,
necessita ng collabora on between government agencies, energy providers,
private sector partners, and local communi es to facilitate the transi on towards
cleaner energy sources. Lastly, forestry and land-use considera ons are cri cal
components of Uganda’s NDC. Engaging stakeholders such as foresters, farmers,
and indigenous communi es is indispensable for sustainable land management
and conserva on eﬀorts.

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Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
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3. Methodology
The study u lized a combina on of primary and secondary data collec on
methods. The bulk of the data was collected through desk study, involving acomprehensive review of both grey and published materials. This included
examining reports and other secondary informa on such as Na onal Determined
Contribu ons (NDCs), climate change policies, and relevant literature available
in the public domain. The documents reviewed encompassed: na onal climatechange policies and strategies; reports on climate change projects and ini a ves
in the country; various knowledge and research works on climate change
mi ga on and adapta on in the country. The secondary data collected throughdesk study was complemented with primary data obtained through quan ta ve
and qualita ve surveys. These surveys u lized both structured and openended ques onnaires to gather informa on. Key informants were iden ﬁed in
Uganda based on the ﬁndings from the desk studies and were interviewed togain deeper insights into the subject ma er. To further validate and triangulate
the data obtained from desk studies and key informant interviews (KIIs), focus
group discussions were conducted. Par cipants in these discussions were drawn
from both the key informants and various stakeholder categories, including
government oﬃcials, representa ves from the private sector, civil society
organiza ons (NGOs), researchers, and media/development partners.

Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

54. Major Findings
4.1 Overview of key policies and ins tu ons involved in NDC Implementa on
Uganda has established a comprehensive policy and legisla ve framework toaddress climate change, promote sustainable development, and achieve its
Na onally Determined Contribu on (NDC) goals under the Paris Agreement. Thisrobust policy landscape encompasses various sectors and domains, reﬂec ng
the country’s commitment to a whole-of-government approach in tackling the
mul faceted challenges posed by climate change. Here are some key policies
and their mandates:
The Na onal Climate Change Policy (2015) provides a comprehensive
framework for addressing climate change in Uganda. It emphasizes integra ng
climate change concerns into na onal development planning processes
and mainstreaming climate change across sectors. By aligning with the NDC
goals, this policy supports the country’s eﬀorts to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions, enhance climate resilience, and achieve sustainable development.
The Renewable Energy Policy (2019) plays a crucial role in Uganda’s transi on
towards clean energy sources. By promo ng the development and u liza onof renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power,
the policy contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing
energy security while minimizing reliance on fossil fuels. The Uganda Green
Growth Development Strategy (2017) outlines targets and ac ons to promotesustainable economic growth while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It
focuses on key sectors like energy, agriculture, forestry, and transport. It aims toenhance resource eﬃciency, promote low-carbon technologies, and green jobs
crea on.
The Climate Change (Management) Act (2021) provides a legal framework
for climate change management in Uganda. It establishes ins tu onal
arrangements, deﬁnes roles and responsibili es, and outlines mechanisms forclimate change planning, coordina on, and ﬁnancing. This robust governancestructure enhances the country’s capacity to implement climate change policies
and fulﬁl its NDC obliga ons eﬀec vely.
The Climate Change Financing Policy (2016) aims to mobilize ﬁnancial resources
for climate change ini a ves in Uganda. It provides guidelines for climate change
ﬁnancing mechanisms, including domes c and interna onal funding sources;and outlines principles for resource alloca on. By facilita ng the mobiliza on of
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Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

climate ﬁnance, this policy supports the implementa on of NDC-related projects
and programs, enabling Uganda to achieve its climate change goals. The Na onal
Adapta on Plan (2015) outlines strategies to enhance climate resilience acrosssectors in Uganda. It iden ﬁes priority adapta on ac ons, including thoserelated to agriculture, water resources, health, and infrastructure.
By implemen ng adapta on measures, such as promo ng climate-smart
agriculture and integra ng climate resilience into infrastructure planning,
Uganda aims to reduce vulnerability to climate change impacts and strengthen
its capacity to adapt, aligning with its NDC goals. Uganda has also developed
sector-speciﬁc policies, such as the Na onal Adapta on Plan for the Agriculture
Sector (2018), the Na onal Water Policy (2018), and the Forest Policy (2019),
which address climate change challenges in their respec ve domains andcontribute to the achievement of the country’s NDC commitments throughsustainable prac ces, resource management, and ecosystem conserva on.
This comprehensive policy landscape demonstrates Uganda’s commitment toaddressing climate change through a mul -sectoral approach. By eﬀec vely
implemen ng and coordina ng these policies, Uganda can strengthen its
resilience, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and build a climate-resilient future
for its people and ecosystems.
The na onal climate change ins tu onal landscape in Uganda encompasses adiverse array of governmental and non-governmental en es, each performing
dis nct roles vital for the implementa on of the country’s NDCs, environmental
stewardship, and climate change mi ga on and adapta on endeavours.
Collabora ve eﬀorts among these ins tu ons are directed towards addressing
the mul faceted challenges posed by climate change while advancing sustainable
development objec ves.
Primarily within the government apparatus, the Ministry of Water andEnvironment assumes a pivotal role in coordina ng ac vi es per nent toclimate change. Concurrently, the Climate Change Department specializes informula ng policies and coordina ng ini a ves aimed at addressing climatechange-related issues. Also the Na onal Environment Management Authority(NEMA) oversees compliance with environmental regula ons, and the Uganda
Na onal Meteorological Authority furnishes climate informa on and early
warning systems. Integra on of climate change considera ons into na onal
development plans falls under the purview of the Na onal Planning Authority.

Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

7

Non-governmental ins tu ons, including civil society organiza ons, researchins tu ons, think tanks, and the private sector, also make signiﬁcant
contribu ons. Civil society organiza ons advocate for climate ac on andimplement community projects, while research ins tu ons and think tanks
provide scien ﬁc insights and policy recommenda ons. The private sector’s
involvement is marked by sustainable prac ces and investments in renewableenergy and climate-resilient business models.
These en es operate in synergy towards shared objec ves. Collabora on isgeared towards implemen ng Uganda’s NDCs, aligning policies with climate
commitments, embedding environmental considera ons into decision-making
processes, and fostering climate change mi ga on and adapta on strategies.
Through concerted eﬀorts, greenhouse gas emissions reduc on is targeted,climate resilience is bolstered, and sustainable development is priori zed.
4.2 Best prac ces and impacts in NDC implementa on
Uganda’s will to implement its NDCs under the Paris Agreement is a testament
to the na on’s unwavering commitment to comba ng climate change. Througha strategic and comprehensive approach, Uganda has exempliﬁed best prac cesthat have contributed to its remarkable achievements in this domain. These
prac ces serve as a beacon of inspira on for other na ons striving to make alas ng impact on the planet’s well-being.
One of the cornerstones of Uganda’s success lies in its enabling policy
environment. The country’s Na onal Climate Change Policy provides a robust
framework for climate ac on, aligning NDC objec ves with the overarching
Na onal Development Plan. This policy coherence ensures that climate
considera ons are seamlessly integrated into the na on’s broader development
agenda, fostering a holis c and sustainable approach to progress.
Uganda’s inclusive stakeholder engagement has been pivotal in garnering
widespread support and ownership of its climate ini a ves. By ac vely involving
civil society organiza ons, private sector en es, academia, local communi es,
and development partners, Uganda has tapped into a diverse pool of knowledge,
resources, and innova ve solu ons. This collabora ve approach has cul vatedtrust and transparency, amplifying the eﬀec veness of NDC implementa on
eﬀorts.
Ins tu onal coordina on and collabora on have been instrumental in driving
Uganda’s climate agenda forward. The Climate Change Department within the
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Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

Ministry of Water and Environment serves as a coordina ng hub, ensuringeﬀec ve integra on of climate considera ons across various government
departments and agencies. This synergis c approach has facilitated coherent
sectoral planning and resource alloca on, propelling a collec ve and harmonizedeﬀort towards achieving the NDC targets.
Uganda’s proac ve eﬀorts in mobilizing climate ﬁnance have provided thenecessary ﬁnancial resources to support its ambi ous NDC objec ves. By
ac vely engaging with interna onal climate funds and crea ng a conducive
environment for private sector investment in climate-friendly projects, Uganda
has bolstered the implementa on of renewable energy ini a ves, sustainableagriculture prac ces, and climate-resilient infrastructure.
Perhaps most notably, Uganda’s recogni on of the importance of communityled adapta on and resilience building has been a cornerstone of its success.
By involving local communi es in the design and implementa on of adapta on
measures, Uganda ensures that interven ons are context-speciﬁc and meet theunique needs of vulnerable popula ons. This approach has fostered a senseof ownership and empowerment, resul ng in the successful implementa onof climate-resilient agricultural prac ces, water management schemes, anddisaster risk reduc on measures.
The impacts of Uganda’s NDC implementa on eﬀorts are tangible and far-reaching.
From the expansion of renewable energy sources to the adop on of climatesmart agriculture prac ces, Uganda has witnessed an increase in renewableenergy consump on, which has contributed to reducing emissions, enhanced
food security, and improved resilience to climate variability (Bamwesigye, 2023).
Furthermore, the conserva on and restora on of ecosystems have preserved
vital biodiversity and ecosystem services, while community-based disaster risk
reduc on measures have strengthened the na on’s capacity to respond toclimate-related hazards.
Uganda’s commitment to ambi ous NDC targets and its successful implementa on
have garnered interna onal recogni on, posi oning the country as a regional
leader in climate ac on. This accomplishment not only serves as a source ofpride but also inspires other na ons to follow in Uganda’s footsteps, contribu ng
to a global movement towards a more sustainable and resilient future.
As the world grapples with the existen al threat of climate change, Uganda’s
best prac ces serve as a beacon of hope and inspira on. By con nuing to build
Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

9upon its strengths and addressing exis ng challenges, Uganda is poised tofurther enhance its capacity to measure progress and contribute signiﬁcantly to
global climate change mi ga on and adapta on eﬀorts.
4.3 Challenges to Stakeholder Par cipa on in NDC implementa on
Uganda’s journey towards successful implementa on of its NDCs has been besetwith challenges, yet the na on’s resilience and determina on have enabled it tonavigate these obstacles with unwavering commitment. These very challenges
have served as catalysts for innova on, adapta on, and the development ofbest prac ces that have propelled Uganda’s climate ac on agenda forward.
One of the most formidable challenges faced by Uganda is the limited availabilityof ﬁnancial resources. The country’s heavy reliance on interna onal climate
ﬁnance has presented hurdles in accessing funds for cri cal climate projects,
par cularly those aimed at adapta on and building resilience in vulnerable
communi es. However, this challenge has prompted Uganda to explore
innova ve ﬁnancing mechanisms and foster partnerships with the private
sector, diversifying its funding sources and ensuring a steady ﬂow of resources
for climate ini a ves.
Ins tu onal capacity and coordina on have been areas of concern, withpoten al overlaps, gaps, and conﬂic ng priori es among various government
ministries and agencies. However, this challenge has underscored the importanceof robust ins tu onal frameworks and has mo vated Uganda to strengthen
its inter-ministerial coordina on mechanisms. By fostering collabora on andinforma on-sharing among stakeholders, Uganda has been able to streamline
its climate ac ons, minimizing redundancies and maximizing the impact of its
eﬀorts.
Data collec on and monitoring are crucial for tracking progress in NDC
implementa on, yet Uganda has grappled with challenges in data availability
and reliability. This obstacle has prompted the country to invest in capacitybuilding ini a ves, strengthen its data collec on methodologies and developed
comprehensive tracking tools and indexes. By leveraging technologicaladvancements and collabora ng with research ins tu ons, Uganda has beenable to enhance its data-driven decision-making processes, ensuring evidencebased policy development and accurate repor ng on NDC progress.
The eﬀec ve implementa on and enforcement of climate policies at thegrassroots level have posed challenges, par cularly in the context of land
10 Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

use, forestry, and natural resource management. However, this obstacle
has highlighted the importance of community engagement and awarenessraising eﬀorts. Uganda has embraced a decentralized approach, empowering
local communi es and fostering ownership of climate ini a ves. By involving
stakeholders at every level, Uganda has ensured that climate policies are
tailored to local contexts and implemented with the support and par cipa onof aﬀected communi es.
Finally, Uganda’s dependency on fossil fuels, par cularly charcoal and ﬁrewood,for cooking and hea ng has presented a signiﬁcant hurdle in achieving its
mi ga on targets. However, this challenge has catalysed the development ofinnova ve solu ons and the promo on of clean cooking solu ons and renewableenergy sources. By inves ng in research and development, and fostering publicprivate partnerships, Uganda has been able to accelerate the deployment ofsustainable energy alterna ves, thereby reducing its carbon footprint andenhancing energy security.
Uganda’s resilience in the face of these challenges has not only strengthened
its commitment to climate ac on but has also inspired the development ofbest prac ces that have contributed to its successful NDC implementa on.
By embracing innova on, fostering collabora on, and empowering local
communi es, Uganda has transformed obstacles into opportuni es, se ng an
example for other na ons grappling with similar challenges.
As the world collec vely confronts the urgent threat of climate change, Uganda’s
experience demonstrates that challenges can be overcome through unwavering
determina on, strategic planning, and a commitment to con nuous learningand adapta on. By building upon these best prac ces and addressing remaining
obstacles, Uganda is well-posi oned to further solidify its posi on as a regional
leader in climate ac on and contribute signiﬁcantly to global eﬀorts in mi ga ng
and adap ng to the impacts of climate change.
4.4 Opportuni es for Stakeholder Par cipa on in NDC Implementa on
Uganda’s path towards successful implementa on of its NDCs has been pavedwith challenges that have served as catalysts for innova on, adapta on, andthe explora on of new opportuni es. These obstacles have not only tested
the na on’s resilience but have also unveiled avenues for growth, propelling
Uganda’s climate ac on agenda to new heights. One of the most signiﬁcant
opportuni es arising from the challenge of limited ﬁnancial resources is thepoten al to enhance climate ﬁnance strategies. By exploring alterna ve ﬁnancing
Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development: 11
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

mechanisms and fostering partnerships with the private sector, Uganda candiversify its funding sources and create more sustainable revenue streams forclimate ini a ves. This approach not only complements interna onal climate
ﬁnance eﬀorts but also fosters ownership and long-term commitment fromdomes c stakeholders.
The challenges associated with ins tu onal capacity and coordina on havehighlighted the need for capacity building and ins tu onal strengthening. By
inves ng in training and technical support for relevant government agencies,
Uganda can enhance their ability to eﬀec vely execute climate projects, monitor
progress, and streamline inter-agency coordina on. This opportunity presents achance to build a cohesive and eﬃcient ins tu onal landscape, ensuring thatclimate policies are implemented seamlessly and their impact is maximized.
Data management and monitoring have been areas of concern, underscoring
the importance of improving data collec on, analysis, and repor ng systems.
Uganda can leverage this opportunity by inves ng in technology-based tracking
tools, building the capacity of ins tu ons responsible for data collec on, andpromo ng data-driven decision-making processes. By embracing innova ve data
management approaches, Uganda can enhance the accuracy and accessibilityof climate-related informa on, enabling evidence-based policymaking andtransparent progress repor ng.
Public awareness and stakeholder engagement have emerged as cri cal
components of successful NDC implementa on. Uganda can seize thisopportunity by conduc ng targeted outreach campaigns and promo ng
inclusive stakeholder engagement processes. By involving local communi es
in the decision-making process and raising awareness about the importanceof climate ac on, Uganda can generate widespread support, ownership, andpar cipa on in climate ini a ves, ensuring their long-term sustainability andeﬀec veness.
Finally, the challenge of dependence on fossil fuels has unveiled the opportunity
to priori ze the promo on of renewable energy adop on. By inves ng in clean
cooking solu ons, solar power, and mini-grid projects, Uganda can reduce its
reliance on fossil fuels and contribute signiﬁcantly to its mi ga on eﬀorts.
This transi on not only aligns with the country’s NDC objec ves but alsopresents economic opportuni es, enhances energy security, and fosters a moresustainable development pathway.
12 Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

5. Conclusion
Through the establishment of an enabling policy environment that aligns
climate ac on with na onal development priori es, Uganda has fosteredan inclusive approach to NDC implementa on. By ac vely engaging diverse
stakeholders such as civil society organiza ons, private sector en es,
academia, and local communi es, Uganda has strengthened its ins tu onal
frameworks and facilitated robust coordina on among government agencies.
This collabora ve eﬀort, coupled with strategic mobiliza on of climate ﬁnanceand an environment conducive to private sector investment, has signiﬁcantly
bolstered the implementa on of renewable energy ini a ves, sustainableagriculture prac ces, and climate-resilient infrastructure. Uganda’s emphasison community-led adapta on and resilience building ensures that interven ons
are context-speciﬁc and address the unique needs of vulnerable popula ons.
The posi ve impacts of Uganda’s eﬀorts are evident in the expansion of renewableenergy sources, adop on of climate-resilient agricultural prac ces, ecosystemconserva on, enhanced disaster preparedness, and interna onal recogni on asa regional leader in climate ac on. To maintain this momentum, it is crucial forpolicymakers to con nuously strengthen policy frameworks and cross-sectoral
coordina on, and ensure eﬀec ve implementa on and enforcement of climate
policies at all levels. Capacity building, data management, and monitoring
systems should be priori zed to enhance evidence-based decision-making andaccurate tracking of NDC progress. Ac ve engagement from all stakeholders,
including development partners, will further support Uganda’s climate eﬀorts
through sustained ﬁnance, capacity-building ini a ves, and knowledge-sharing
pla orms, ul mately contribu ng to global climate ac on and paving the way
for a resilient and prosperous future.

Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development: 13
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

6. Policy Recommenda ons
The following policy recommenda ons are proﬀered:
Recommenda on 1. The Government of Uganda should bolster coordina on
and for fy the implementa on of climate policies by crea ng a specialized
Na onal Climate Change Commission: The Government of Uganda should
strengthen ins tu onal coordina on and implementa on of climate policies by
establishing a specialized na onal climate change commission. This commission
would serve as a central authority responsible for overseeing the integra on ofclimate considera ons across all sectors. It would facilitate eﬀec ve collabora onamong government agencies, civil society organiza ons, and the private sector,
ensuring a uniﬁed approach to climate ac on and promo ng sustainable
development ini a ves. By crea ng a na onal climate change commission,
Uganda can enhance its capacity to address climate challenges and achieve its
climate goals more eﬀec vely.
Recommenda on 2. Develop a Comprehensive Climate Finance Strategy:
The Government of Uganda should devise a comprehensive climate ﬁnancestrategy that will tap into the interna onal climate funds and domes c resource
mobiliza on. To address the challenge of limited ﬁnancial resources, Uganda
should develop a comprehensive Climate Finance Strategy. This strategy should
explore innova ve ﬁnancing mechanisms, such as green bonds, carbon pricing,and public-private partnerships, while also strengthening engagement withinterna onal climate funds and domes c resource mobiliza on eﬀorts.
Recommenda on 3. The Government of Uganda and other stakeholders suchas private sector and development partners should priori ze investment
infrastructure to bolster Uganda’s ability to withstand climate-related
challenges: In collabora on with private sector en es and development
partners, the Ugandan government should priori ze investments in climateresilient infrastructure to bolster the country’s ability to withstand climaterelated challenges. This strategic ini a ve will enhance Uganda’s resilienceto the impacts of climate change by focusing on the construc on of resilienttransporta on networks, water management systems, and energy infrastructure.
Key components of this infrastructure development include integra ng green
building principles and nature-based solu ons into construc on projects. By
inves ng in climate-resilient infrastructure, Uganda can strengthen its capacity
to withstand extreme weather events, mi gate the risks of climate-related
14 Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

disasters, and ensure the sustainable development of vital infrastructure systems
for the beneﬁt of its ci zens and economy.
Recommenda on 4. The Government of Uganda and other stakeholders suchas research organiza ons, NGO’s and CSO’s should priori ze climate-smart
agricultural prac ces and ecosystem conserva on eﬀorts: This objec ve canbe realized by implemen ng a mul faceted approach that includes providing
incen ves for sustainable land management prac ces, fostering the adop onof agroforestry and conserva on agriculture techniques, and establishingprotected areas and ecological corridors. By incen vizing sustainable land
management prac ces, Uganda can encourage farmers to adopt methods
that enhance soil health, conserve water resources, and mi gate climate
risks. Addi onally, promo ng agroforestry and conserva on agriculture willcontribute to biodiversity conserva on, soil carbon sequestra on, and resilience
to climate extremes. Furthermore, the establishment of protected areas andecological corridors will safeguard cri cal ecosystems, preserve biodiversity,and support ecosystem-based adapta on strategies. Through these concerted
eﬀorts, Uganda can strengthen its agricultural resilience and ecosystem health,contribu ng to sustainable development and climate change mi ga on.
Recommenda on 5. The Government of Uganda and other relevant stakeholders
such as research organiza ons, CSO’s and NGO’s should invest in climate
educa on and public awareness campaigns: To eﬀec vely foster a cultureof climate consciousness and encourage behavioural change, Uganda shouldembark on a comprehensive approach to climate educa on and awarenessraising ini a ves. This will involve integra ng climate change curricula into
formal educa on systems at all levels, including primary, secondary, and ter ary
ins tu ons. Addi onally, robust community-based outreach programs shouldbe implemented to engage ci zens across diverse demographic and geographic
contexts, ensuring widespread awareness and par cipa on. Leveraging digitalpla orms and media channels will further enhance the reach and impact ofthese campaigns, allowing for the dissemina on of relevant informa on and thepromo on of sustainable prac ces among the populace. By inves ng in climate
educa on and public awareness campaigns, Uganda can empower its ci zenswith the knowledge and tools needed to ac vely contribute to climate resilienceand mi ga on eﬀorts, fostering a collec ve commitment to sustainable
development.

Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development: 15
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

References
Auma, S., & Badr, N.B. (2022). Assessment of the impacts of climate change
on livestock water sources and livestock produc on: Case study, Karamoja
region of Uganda. World Water Policy.
Bakh ari, F., Hinostroza, M.L., & Puig, D. (2018). Ins tu onal capaci es for NDC
implementa on: a guidance document.
Bamwesigye, D. (2023). Willingness to Pay for Alterna ve Energies in Uganda:
Energy Needs and Policy Instruments towards Zero Deforesta on 2030 andClimate Change. Energies, 16(2), 980. h ps://doi.org/10.3390/en16020980
Irish Aid. (2017). Uganda Climate Ac on Report for 2016. Resilience andEconomic Inclusion Team. Irish Aid.
Kaggwa, R., Nabatanzi, R., Kavuma, S., Bakiika, R., & Bainomugisha, A. (2023).
Uganda’s Post-COVID Recovery Strategy & NDC Implementa on. IDRC.
McNamara, L., & Nsubuga, Y. (2022). How research and engagement inﬂuenced
Uganda’s climate change adapta on landscape.
Rodriguez, I.M. (2021). Ensuring science-based climate ac on: Analysis of mul stakeholder engagement in Na onally Determined Contribu ons.
United Na ons Development Programme. (2016). Gender equality in na onal
climate ac on: planning for gender-responsive na onally determined
contribu ons (S. Huyer, Ed.). UNDP.

16 Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

ATPS TechnoPolicy Briefs Series• Advancing Tanzania’s Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs) Goals
Through Inclusive Stakeholder Engagement (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 74)• Enhancing Stakeholder Par cipa on in the Implementa on of the Na onally
Determined Contribu ons (NDCs) in Ethiopia (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No.
73)• Paving the Way for Climate Ac on: Kenya’s Journey towards Implemen ng
the Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs) (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No.
72)• Quelle Est La Place De La Science, De La Technologie Et De L’innova on Dans
L’emploi Des Jeunes Au Sénégal ? (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 71)• Using Science, Technology, and Innova on to Enhance Skills Development,
Job Crea on, and Entrepreneurship in Zimbabwe (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief
No. 70)• Fostering the future and livelihood of young people in Uganda throughScience, Technology, and Innova on (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 69)• What is the place of Science, Technology, and Innova on in Youth Employment
in Senegal? (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 68)• Understanding Rwanda’s Science, Technology, and Innova on Landscape in
Youth Employment Crea on (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 67)• Leveraging Science, Technology, and Innova on for Enhanced Youth
Employment in Nigeria (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 66)• Unlocking the Poten al of Educa on and Skills for Suppor ng Youth
Employment in Kenya (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 65)• Harnessing Science and Technological Innova on for Youth Employment andSkill Acquisi on in Ghana (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 64)• Is Ethiopia’s Science, Technology, and Innova on Policy Landscape Eﬀec velyCrea ng Jobs and Fostering Skills for the Youth? (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No.
63)• University-Led Ecosystems for Sustained Innova on and Entrepreneurship
Development in Kenya (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 62)• Eco-innova on Policies for Sustainable Development in Africa (ATPSTechnoPolicy Brief No. 61)• Ins tu onal Landscape for Eco-innova on Development in Africa (ATPSTechnoPolicy Brief No. 60)• Policy and Ins tu onal Framework for Ecological Organic Agriculture in Benin(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 59)• Ins tu onal Framework for Ecological Organic Agriculture in Kenya (ATPSTechnoPolicy Brief No. 58)
Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development: 17
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda• Policy and Ins tu onal Framework for Ecological Organic Agriculture in
Senegal (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 57)• Advancing Ecological Organic Agriculture in Nigeria (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief
No. 56)• Policy and Ins tu onal Framework for Ecological Organic Agriculture in
Rwanda (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 55)• Bridging Climate Informa on Gaps to Strengthen Capaci es for Climate Informed
Decision (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 54)• Embracing Open Contrac ng in Africa (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 53)• The Digital Revolu on, Open Science, and Innova on for Open Science Developmentin Sub-Saharan Africa (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 52)• Nouvelles approaches de ﬁ nancement de la recherché et de L’innova on en Afrique(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 51)• New Approaches for Funding Research and Innova on in Africa (ATPS TechnoPolicy
Brief No. 50)• Towards Eﬀec ve Public-Private Partnerships in Research and Innova on: A
Perspec ve for African Science Gran ng Councils (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 49)• Innova ve Prac ces and Policies for Promo ng Biodiversity Informa cs in SubSaharan Africa (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 48)• Improving the Relevance of University Training to Labour Market Demands in Africa(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 47)• Developing Policies for Biodiversity Informa cs in sub-Saharan Africa (ATPSTechnoPolicy Brief No. 46)• ICTs role in Agricultural Development: Prospects of Land Poten al Knowledge System(LandPKS) (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 45)• Mainstreaming Gender in the Na onal Science, Technology and Innova on (STI)
Policy of Kenya (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 44)• Social Innova on: An Untapped Resource for Inclusive Green Growth (ATPSTechnoPolicy Brief No. 43)• Policy Axes that Can Uphold Agricultural Innova ons for Climate Change Adapta on
and Food Security in Central Africa: Case of Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea and Central
African Republic (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 42)• Frameworks for Intellectual Property Protec on of Tradi onal Knowledge in Tanzania(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 41)• Assessment of Possible Intellectual Property Protec on Op ons of Tradi onal
Knowledge System in Ethiopia (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 40)• Towards inﬂuencing Na onal Legisla on, Policies, Strategies and Programmes forappropriate Protec on and Beneﬁt-Sharing of Tradi onal Knowledge (TK) with andby Tradi onal Herbalists in Uganda. (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 39)• Tradi onal Healers and their Provision of Mental Health Services in Cosmopolitan
Informal Se lements in Nairobi, Kenya. (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 38)• Policy Implica ons for Intellectual Property Systems for Tradi onal Healers in
Lesotho. (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 37)

18 Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda• Incidence of Indigenous and Innova ve Climate Change Adapta on Prac ces for
Smallholder Framers’ Livelihood Security in Chikhwawa District, Southern Malawi.
(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 36)• Machobane Farming System and its Relevance to Climate Change Policy in Lesotho.
(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 35)

Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development: 19
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

20 Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development:
The case of NDCs Implementa on in Uganda

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