Kampala, Uganda – April 15, 2025 — Uganda has officially launched the 2025–2026 cohort of the Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) in Practice Capacity Building program, a regional initiative aimed at equipping senior civil servants with tools to develop and implement evidence-based, inclusive environmental policies. The inauguration took place at Makerere University and marked the fifth cohort since the program’s inception.
The current cohort will emphasize climate-smart agriculture, aligning Uganda’s agricultural practices with low-carbon development goals. Five senior officials from key ministries — Finance, Water and Environment, Lands, Agriculture, and Tourism — were nominated by their Permanent Secretaries for the year-long program.
The IGE program, jointly implemented by Makerere University and Sweden’s University of Gothenburg, is funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) and coordinated by the Environment for Development (EfD) Initiative. The training blends online learning, face-to-face workshops, and a Transformation Initiative — a capstone project where fellows develop practical, policy-oriented solutions to real-world environmental challenges.
In his opening remarks, Edward Bbaale, Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences and Director of the Environment for Development Centre at Makerere, emphasized the program’s strategic intent and selectivity.
“We are deliberate in who we admit to this program. We aim to empower you with tools to develop policy solutions that promote green growth while mitigating the impacts of climate change,” he said.
Bbaale noted that despite contributing less than 4% to global carbon emissions, Africa is disproportionately affected by climate change. Uganda, a signatory to the Paris Agreement, actively participates in international climate forums, including the Coalition of Finance Ministers for Climate Action, which it co-chairs.
The IGE Fellows will engage in peer learning with counterparts from Ethiopia, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Kenya. Study visits and regional workshops will provide comparative insights into climate-resilient policy interventions. The program culminates in a joint certificate from Makerere and the University of Gothenburg, and graduates join a growing regional alumni network focused on green policy advocacy.
“We want solutions that are practical and grounded in Uganda’s realities,” Bbaale concluded. “Your work will help shape policies that move our country toward sustainable, low-carbon development.”
Strengthening Institutions Through Policy Engagement
Peter Babyenda, Uganda’s IGE Policy Engagement Specialist, echoed the importance of capacity building in addressing environmental and climate-related issues in low-income countries.
“This program is a response to the limited capacity to act effectively. We are training civil servants to use economic policy instruments that influence behavior and policy decisions, ultimately driving inclusive and sustainable development,” he said.
Peter Babyenda praised Uganda’s progress in clean energy initiatives — from cooking electricity tariffs to electric pressure cooker promotion — and emphasized the program’s role in amplifying and formalizing such innovations.
He also stressed the importance of inclusivity in climate action.
“No one should be left behind. Women, youth, and marginalized communities must be part of the green transition,” he said. “It’s not just about environmental sustainability, but also about poverty reduction and gender equity.”
Peter Babyenda reminded participants that while there are no training allowances, the program’s real value lies in the skills, networks, and career opportunities it offers. Many alumni have advanced within government or moved to international organizations like the IMF.
Meet the 2025–2026 IGE Fellows: Voices for policy reform
The new cohort includes professionals from diverse sectors, all with a shared goal of translating knowledge into actionable policy that strengthens Uganda’s resilience to climate change.
Boaz Tumusiime – Bridging wildlife protection and community prosperity
A Wildlife Officer from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Boaz Tumusiime aims to address the intersection of conservation and livelihoods.
“Our sector is in charge of national parks, but these are surrounded by communities. This program offers a way to reduce human-wildlife conflict while enhancing economic benefits,” he said.
His background in integrating environmental and economic analysis positioned him as a strong candidate.
Nicholas Magara – Steering climate policy amid crisis
As Acting Assistant Commissioner in the Ministry of Water and Environment, Nicholas leads policy planning efforts. With Uganda already facing extreme weather, he sees the IGE training as timely.
“This course will equip us with practical tools to revise national policies affecting millions. I’m in a position to make that impact,” he noted.
Irene Kemigisha– Planning land use for climate resilience
An economist at the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, Irene focuses on sustainable land use and urban development.
“Most development happens on land, yet it's also where climate disasters strike. IGE offers us the platform to rethink policy in a climate-smart way,” she said.
She hopes to use insights from the program to reform planning frameworks and promote resilient urban growth.
Thomas Epeet – Designing agricultural policies for climate-vulnerable farmers
A senior engineer and project manager in the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Thomas has spent over a decade helping farmers adapt to climate stress through water infrastructure.
“When droughts hit or floods come, farmers suffer first. We need policies that support real solutions. IGE will help us push those forward,” he emphasized.
His extensive experience with irrigation and flood control makes him a strong advocate for integrating engineering solutions into policy.
Compiled and Written by
Jane Anyango
Communication Officer