The Rockefeller Foundation has praised Uganda for being the first nation to develop a health national adaptation plan aimed at managing the effects of climate change.
William Asiko, the foundation’s Africa Vice President, praised Uganda’s rapid containment of the Ebola outbreak, which was managed in just 90 days, showcasing the country’s capacity to handle such crises effectively.
The new five-year plan outlines Uganda’s strategies for preparing for and responding to emergencies, aligning with global guidelines set by the United Nations climate convention. Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, described the plan as a comprehensive guide for strengthening emergency responses, improving coordination between organizations, and addressing issues like flooding and disease outbreaks.
Uganda is the second country worldwide to develop such a plan. Asiko noted that while Africa contributes minimally to global climate change, it suffers disproportionately from its effects, highlighting the importance of these proactive measures.
Minister without portfolio Rukia Nakadama, who launched the plan, emphasized the urgency of having such strategies, citing a recent incident in Kampala involving a collapsed rubbish heap as a reminder of the need for effective emergency planning.
The plan addresses crucial health aspects, including mental health, food-borne diseases, and injuries from extreme weather, based on a thorough vulnerability assessment.
Asiko also mentioned that the Rockefeller Foundation, which has supported public health projects in Uganda, has recently updated its focus to include climate change in its initiatives.
