The climate crisis is fundamentally and irreparably reshaping our world, with grave implications on the rights of current and future generations of children. The month of March was marked by scorching heatwaves and shortly after, April was marked by seasonal rainstorms characterized by flooding, loss of lives of both children and adults and property in Kampala and most parts of the country including North, North-Eastern and West Nile.
A child from Moroto and youth from Wakiso participated in the NORAD Climate learning seminar where they shared their perspectives on climate change and how it threatens their generation. The NORAD Climate Learning seminar hosted by Save the Children Norway in Uganda was a powerful moment of reflection, learning, and action, where young people shared their views.
The event was part of Save the Children’s broader efforts to amplify the voices of children in climate justice conversations especially those from areas that are most affected by extreme weather conditions. Children spoke about losing farmland to floods, walking longer distances for water, and the increasing cost of food.
“We want to be part of the decisions that shape our future,” said 15-year-old Maureen, from Moroto. We are the ones facing extreme dry conditions which severely affect children by compromising their access to basic needs like water, food, and access to health services. Moroto district particularly receives 2 seasons of rainfall (2 months in a year-but this is also very low). This creates a prolonged drought, water scarcity, forcing children, especially girls to walk long distances in search of water, often missing school in the process. Crop failures and livestock deaths contribute to food insecurity and malnutrition, weakening children’s immune systems and making them more vulnerable to diseases. The harsh climate also limits access to clean sanitation, increases the risk of waterborne illnesses, and places immense psychological stress on the children”.
On the other hand, Hassan- a 21years old from Wakiso said, “Heavy unseasonal rainfall has devastating effects on children and youth. Sudden flooding destroys homes, schools, and health facilities, disrupting education and access to essential services. Contaminated water sources heighten the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera and diarrhea, which are especially dangerous for young people. The destruction of crops and food stores can worsen hunger and malnutrition, while displacement due to floods increases the risk of child exploitation, abuse, and trauma. These erratic weather patterns undermine young people’s safety, health, and stability, making recovery and resilience even more difficult”.
In small breakout sessions, children brainstormed on local strategies as some of the ways leaders and adults can stem the devasting effects of climate change. Children proposed the use of Lorena energy-saving stoves which use 40–60% less firewood and can help curb the cutting of trees for fuel, which is a major driver of deforestation in many rural communities. Promoting such stoves is a step toward cleaner, renewable, and community-driven energy solutions aligned with climate adaptation and mitigation goals. Children also highlighted the need for planting trees in their schools, homes and communities and called for greater investment in green energy, reforestation, and climate education in schools.
Children demanded for establishment and inclusion in formal platforms for children to engage in climate policymaking. Children are among the most affected by the climate crisis, yet they are often excluded from conversations and decisions that directly impact their future. Establishing formal platforms for children to meaningfully engage in climate policymaking ensures their voices, experiences, and ideas inform the solutions being developed. These platforms can include youth-led forums, representation in national and local climate dialogues, and child-sensitive consultation processes. Empowering children as equal stakeholders in climate action not only upholds their rights but also strengthens the legitimacy and sustainability of policy responses.
The increasing frequency and intensity of climate-related disasters such as droughts, floods, and food insecurity disproportionately affect children in low-income households. Expanding social protection systems, including universal child benefits, can serve as a buffer during climate shocks, helping families maintain access to food, healthcare, and education. Safety nets not only build resilience but also promote long-term wellbeing, breaking cycles of poverty and vulnerability. Governments and development partners must prioritize inclusive, climate-responsive social protection as part of broader climate adaptation strategies.
Access to clean and affordable energy is a critical enabler of development, education, and health. In many low-income communities, the lack of reliable energy compromises children’s ability to study, teachers’ ability to prepare, and families’ quality of life. Increasing investment in sustainable energy solutions—such as solar panels, energy-efficient stoves, and mini-grid systems—can transform schools into safe and productive learning environments and make homes more climate-resilient. Prioritizing clean energy access is a win-win. It reduces environmental impact while improving lives and educational outcomes.
Save the Children staff from across the 11 NORAD African supported countries and Government stakeholders in the room acknowledged the urgency to take action and committed to integrating children’s voices in climate-related planning processes going forward.
