Uganda is reeling under an unrelenting heatwave, with temperatures soaring to record-breaking levels, reaching as high as 40°C in some areas. The Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA) has confirmed that cities like Kampala, Jinja, and Gulu are experiencing extreme heat well above seasonal averages, with no immediate relief in sight. Traditionally, the March-April-May rainy season brings cooler temperatures, but this year’s rainfall has been erratic, exacerbating the crisis. Meteorologists warn that the ongoing heatwave is symptomatic of broader climatic shifts linked to global warming, which has seen Uganda’s average temperatures rise by 1.3°C since the 1960s.
The suffocating heat is taking a toll on public health, prompting urgent advisories from the Ministry of Health. Medical professionals are cautioning against dehydration, heat exhaustion, and the heightened risk of heatstroke, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, infants, and individuals with pre-existing conditions. Dr. Brian Ssegaluma Buyinza, a medical officer, has emphasized the dangers of prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures, stating, “When temperatures are exceedingly high, the body’s ability to regulate its internal temperature can be overwhelmed, leading to serious health complications.” Residents have been urged to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities, and wear light, breathable clothing to mitigate the risks.
The agricultural sector—Uganda’s economic backbone—is also in distress, with farmers reporting widespread crop failures and diminishing yields. The absence of rainfall and the extreme heat have scorched staple crops such as maize, beans, and coffee, leading to concerns over food security. Livestock farmers are similarly grappling with dwindling water supplies and barren grazing fields. If the heatwave persists, experts predict that Uganda’s food production will plummet, resulting in higher food prices and increased economic hardship for millions. The government is considering emergency interventions, including subsidies for affected farmers and the distribution of drought-resistant seeds.
Beyond agriculture, the intense heat is also disrupting daily life and business operations. Many residents in urban centers, including Kampala, have reported difficulties in commuting, with sweltering road conditions and increased vehicle breakdowns due to engine overheating. Power consumption has surged as households and businesses rely on fans and air conditioning, leading to occasional power outages. Meanwhile, reports from schools suggest that student attendance is declining as parents keep their children at home to avoid the extreme temperatures. Local businesses, particularly street vendors and construction workers, have struggled to operate under the oppressive sun, leading to reduced economic activity.
Climate experts believe that Uganda’s escalating heat crisis is a direct consequence of global climate change, compounded by deforestation and rapid urbanization. Scientists warn that without immediate action to mitigate environmental degradation, extreme weather events will become more frequent and severe. “This is not an isolated incident but part of a worrying trend. Uganda must invest in sustainable water management, reforestation programs, and climate-smart agriculture to withstand future climate shocks,” says climate scientist Dr. Sarah Atwine. Authorities are now under pressure to accelerate the implementation of climate adaptation policies and strengthen disaster preparedness mechanisms to combat the growing threat of extreme weather.
As the nation grapples with the worst heatwave in decades, a sense of urgency is palpable. The government, in collaboration with humanitarian organizations, has begun distributing water supplies to the hardest-hit communities and setting up cooling centers to provide temporary relief. However, long-term solutions remain crucial in addressing the underlying causes of Uganda’s climate vulnerabilities. With meteorologists predicting further temperature spikes in the coming weeks, the question remains: How prepared is Uganda to withstand the escalating wrath of climate change?
