The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) is joining forces with Makerere University to develop a new strategy aimed at tackling climate change and environmental security risks. The plan, known as the Climate Change and Environmental Security Strategy (CCESS), will help Uganda prepare for and respond to environmental threats that could harm national security.

This update came during a workshop held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at the Defence Intelligence and Security Headquarters in Mbuya. Mrs. Rossette Byengoma, the Permanent Secretary of MODVA, explained that the workshop was meant to bring together experts from the university and the military to create a strong and inclusive strategy. She said the strategy is a forward-thinking effort to reduce environmental risks that could weaken Uganda’s security.

“This strategy will help ensure sustainable growth and make sure the Ministry’s work has a lasting impact,” she said. Mrs. Byengoma praised the partnership with Makerere University, saying their expertise will play a big role in shaping the final plan.

Major General Don Nabasa, representing the Chief of Joint Staff, spoke about the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) commitment to protecting the country from all kinds of threats. While traditional security issues remain important, he said, climate change and environmental damage have become serious new challenges. These problems can hurt the economy, force people to migrate, and create instability.

Maj Gen Nabasa called the partnership between the military and academia “an important collaboration.” He explained that the UPDF is already working on climate-smart practices and better disaster response. The new strategy, he said, will help the military operate in a way that protects the environment while still keeping the country safe.

Brig Gen David Gonyi, the Chief of Staff for the Air Force and head of the CCESS technical committee, said the strategy will make the military’s environmental efforts more organized and effective. He noted that the plan fits with Uganda’s Vision 2040 and global sustainable development goals. The UPDF has a long history of working on environmental conservation, and this strategy will strengthen that role.

Professor Yazidhi Bamutaze from Makerere University said the partnership with MODVA is crucial for Uganda’s future. He promised that the university will work closely with the military to put the strategy into action.

The workshop was attended by senior military officers, including Brig Gen Abdul Rugumayo, Brig Gen Johnson Niwamanya, and other experts from the UPDF and Makerere University.

Climate change is no longer just an environmental issue—it is a security threat. Rising temperatures, unpredictable weather, and natural disasters can lead to food shortages, conflicts over resources, and mass movements of people. For Uganda, where many depend on farming, these changes could have serious consequences.

The military’s involvement in climate security is a smart move. Soldiers often respond to disasters like floods and droughts, so having a clear plan will make their work more effective. The strategy will also help the UPDF reduce its own environmental impact, ensuring that military activities do not harm the land, water, or air.

With the workshop completed, the next step is to finalize the strategy and start putting it into practice. The partnership between MODVA and Makerere University will be key in making sure the plan is based on strong research and real-world experience.

As Uganda faces growing climate challenges, this strategy could become a model for other countries in the region. By bringing together the military and academics, Uganda is showing that security is not just about guns and borders—it is also about protecting the environment that sustains life.

The message is clear: climate change is a threat, but with the right plan, Uganda can fight back.