By: Ismael Kasooha
MUNYONYO
The Prime Minister of Uganda Rt. Hon. Nabbanja Robinah has urged African countries to prioritize climate action if the continent is to achieve its intended goal of socio-economic transformation in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“We cannot talk about development in Africa without tackling climate change head-on. We must rethink and redesign the financial architecture that supports climate action—not as charity, but as a matter of equity, responsibility, and shared prosperity,” said Nabbanja.
She noted that Africa is at a crossroads because it is home to some of the world’s fastest-growing populations and economies, abundant natural wealth, and unmatched human potential, yet we remain the most vulnerable to the devastating impacts of climate change, despite contributing the least to its causes.
“This reality underscores why climate action for Africa is, indeed, a justice issue,” said Nabbanja.
Uganda’s former Prime Ministers Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi and Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda joined by the former Foreign Affairs Minister Sam Kuteesa attending the Former Leaders conference at Munyonyo
The Premier was opening one of the pre-events at Speke Resort and Convention Center. Munyonyo on Monday as Uganda hosts the 11th Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development.
Nabbanja said that Africa needs financing that is accessible, affordable, and adequate—not promises that remain unmet, but commitments that translate into results on the ground.
“As a Member of Parliament myself, I recognize that Parliaments across Africa have a vital role to play in this rethinking process. Through legislation, appropriation of budgets, and oversight, Parliaments must ensure that climate policies are not only ambitious but are backed by action and financing.
We must strengthen the capacity of Parliamentary Committees to scrutinize climate-related expenditures, promote inclusive laws that protect our environment, and give voice to our citizens—especially the youth and women—who are at the frontline of this crisis” she noted.
Pre-Event on the 6th Africa Climate Talks and SDGs ran under the theme: “Rethinking Financing and Ambition for Climate Action, Green Growth, and Development in Africa: A Justice Issue“.
She said that Climate action in Africa is not only about adaptation or resilience but rather about enabling green growth, industrial transformation, and inclusive development. It is about creating millions of decent jobs for our young people, especially in the renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and circular economy sectors. It is about securing a future where our economies thrive without compromising our environment.
Nabbanja assured the delegates that Uganda has mainstreamed climate action in the National Development Plans for sustainability purposes.
“Our Vision 2040 places green growth at the center of our transformation. We are actively mobilizing climate finance and championing partnerships with the private sector and development actors to accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. I am also coordinating efforts to scale up alternative financing for the SDGs, in line with our national and continental ambitions,” the Premier noted.
Nabbanja further said that the Pre-Event was not just another meeting—it was a space to think differently, act boldly, and commit collectively.
“I urge you to generate actionable ideas and forge partnerships that will drive ambition and deliver results for Africa. Climate justice is not a slogan. It is a demand for fairness, dignity, and opportunity. Let us rise to this call and deliver for the people of Africa,” she concluded.
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