Ugandan Parliament Calls for Action on Flood Preparedness Amidst Heat Wave

Members of the Ugandan Parliament are alerting the government to prepare for floods following a heat wave. Chairperson Hon. Lawrence Biyika urged immediate mitigation measures, while other legislators emphasized the need for guidance on agricultural impacts and clean energy subsidies. The Minister of Water and Environment, Hon. Beatrice Anywar, confirmed the government’s efforts to subsidize gas prices and shared projections of easing temperatures by the end of March 2025.

Members of the Ugandan Parliament have expressed concerns regarding potential floods resulting from the current heat wave. Hon. Lawrence Biyika, Chairperson of the Committee on Climate Change, cautioned that heavy rains are imminent, urging the government to implement robust mitigation strategies. He emphasized, “At the end of the dry season will come a lot of rain with floods. We must be disaster prepared, rather than waiting for relief after the disaster.”

This warning follows a statement by Hon. Beatrice Anywar, Minister of Water and Environment, regarding the weather patterns in Uganda. Biyika, who holds credentials in environmental studies, pointed out that prolonged dry conditions will adversely impact agriculture and the economy. He advocated for comprehensive adaptation strategies, including tackling deforestation and wetland degradation, which he described as increasing challenges.

Additionally, Hon. Christine Kaaya called for government guidance on the effects of the dry spell, insisting on clear communication concerning anticipated crop yield losses, livestock impact, and healthcare implications. Similarly, Hon. Joseph Ssewungu advocated for subsidies on clean energy to mitigate charcoal burning and deforestation, stating, “Government must reduce the costs on energy if we are to preserve the environment.”

Minister Anywar responded affirmatively, noting that the government has partnered with companies to provide a 40% subsidy on gas prices. “We already have an agreement with Stabex, and the current price takes into account the 40 percent subsidy from government,” she stated. She provided insights into meteorological forecasts, indicating that the heat wave is expected to ease by the end of March 2025, paving the way for the rainy season. Anywar explained the seasonal temperature dynamics, emphasizing that the driest months occur from December to February, with the expected onset of rains in March.

In summary, Ugandan legislators stress the need for proactive measures to address the challenges arising from extreme weather patterns, particularly concerning the impending floods following a heat wave. Key strategies proposed include clear governmental guidance, adaptation measures for agriculture, and subsidies for clean energy to combat environmental degradation. The government has already taken steps to mitigate these issues through subsidies on energy and commitments to monitor and respond to climatic changes.

Original Source: www.zawya.com