Defence Ministry Launches Taskforce to Formulate Climate Change and Environmental Security Strategy

The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA)/the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) have launched a task force to develop a comprehensive Climate Change and Environmental Security Strategy.

The Permanent Secretary, Mrs Rosette Byengoma, inaugurated the Taskforce, which aims to address the challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation in the context of national security.

During the launch at the MODVA Headquarters in Mbuya, Mrs Byengoma emphasised the significant threat posed by the climate change crisis to national and global security, requiring a coordinated and strategic response to mitigate its impacts and prevent devastating consequences.

Mrs Byengoma noted that climate change has far-reaching consequences, impacting vast areas and populations globally through extreme temperature fluctuations, rising water levels, and unpredictable weather patterns, posing significant threats to critical infrastructure and human resources.

This signals the MoDVA/UPDF’s commitment to safeguarding the planet while ensuring the readiness of the defence forces by recognising that the impact of climate change is inseparable from global security concerns.

Led by Brig Gen David Gonyi, Chief of Staff – UPDF Air Force, the task force has been tasked with developing a comprehensive strategy that complies with international, regional, and national regulatory frameworks, including the Climate Change Act (2021), the Public Finance Management Act (2015), and the National Environment Management Authority Act (2019).

These frameworks mandate Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to implement climate change mitigation and adaptation measures within their operations.

The Ministry of Water and Environment will offer technical support during the strategy’s development. The stakeholder consultation process aims to ensure inclusivity and participation.

In attendance were Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, Chief Joint Staff; Mrs. Edith Buturo, MODVA Under Secretary for Finance and Administration; Generals; Senior Officers; and Officials of the MODVA.