Uganda is currently experiencing a serious heatwave, with the temperature soaring to dangerous levels across the nation. The Uganda National Meteorological Authority has reported that the intense heat is likely to continue through March, with some areas registering temperatures above 35°C. The situation has made citizens, farmers, and health specialists extremely worried, as the heatwave disrupts day-to-day life and also poses very serious risks to both agriculture and health.

In the major cities, the heat has been particularly bad. By 2 pm today, Kampala was a scorching 37°C, with Jinja and Soroti reaching over 38°C. Gulu and Mbale were not far behind, at 37°C apiece. The remaining locations, Mbarara, Fort Portal, Hoima, and Lira, did not get left behind when it came to extreme heat, with temperatures ranging from 32°C to 37°C. Even at night, the temperatures remain abnormally high, and this makes it difficult for people to sleep and recover from daytime heat. Kampala resident Grace Nambi vented her frustration: “We have never had such heat before. It’s becoming unbearable. Even at night, the temperatures remain high, and it’s difficult to sleep.” Her sentiments echo those of most Ugandans who are struggling to cope with the relentless heat.

The neighboring nations are also ablaze. Kigali, Rwanda, recorded 31°C, Dodoma in Tanzania hit 33°C, and Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo recorded 30°C. Nairobi, Kenya, was one degree lower at 29°C, but Juba in South Sudan is going through extreme temperatures, hitting as high as 42°C. The Juba temperatures have been so terrible that the authorities were forced to close schools after children collapsed due to the excessive temperatures. Meteorologists attributed the extreme heat to urbanization, deforestation, and climate change. According to Abubakar Kalema, a senior meteorologist, “We are seeing a clear signal of the global warming crisis. The rising temperatures are explained by the change in weather patterns, and we expect the heat to overflow into March.” His warning raises the urgent need to address the causes of such extreme weather conditions. Farmers are among the hardest hit by the heatwave.

Rakai District farmer John Mugisha expressed his fears: “Our crops are drying up, and if this continues, we are going to suffer food shortages.” The impact on agriculture can have long-term effects, not only on the farmers but also on the country in general, as food prices can rise and supplies can be reduced. The health sector is also feeling the pinch. The hospitals have recorded an increase in heat-related conditions like dehydration and heat stroke. Dr. Sarah Kintu, a physician at Mulago Hospital, said, “We have noticed more patients coming in with dizziness, headaches, and extreme fatigue. The elderly and children are suffering most.” These health risks highlight the need for public awareness campaigns to allow people to protect themselves from the heat.

The activists are calling for the government to take immediate action to address the crisis. Environmentalist Brian Okello pleaded, “We need to plant more trees, promote sustainable land use, and invest in climate adaptation. If we don’t act now, things will only get worse.” His plea is in accordance with the growing realization that climate change is a reality that must be confronted with urgency. In the meantime, Ugandans are doing their best to cope with the heat. Janet Tumusiime, a businesswoman in Jinja, shared with us her survival strategy: “I always carry water with me and try to stay indoors during the hottest hours.” Basic precautions like drinking plenty of water, avoiding direct sunlight, and dressing lightly can allow people to cope with the heat, but these are temporary solutions.

As the heatwave rages on, the question in everyone’s mind is if this is a short-term anomaly or a sign of an aggravating climate condition. Experts stress the immediate adoption of climate actions like afforestation and conservation to safeguard future generations. Kalema warned, “Climate change is real, and its effects are being felt.” His words are a grim reminder that there is no time to waste.

Uganda’s heatwave is a wake-up call for Uganda and the world. The extreme temperatures are disrupting lives, threatening agriculture, and jeopardizing health. People can take precautions to protect themselves, but long-term solutions require collaborative efforts. By addressing the drivers of climate change and investing in clean technologies, Uganda can render itself immune to future heatwaves and other climate-related issues. The heat may be unbearable today, but with the right measures, the future years can be cooler and safer for all.