By Ireen Twongirwe,
OPINION
As climate negotiations continue in Bonn during SB64, grassroots organizations such as Women for Green Economy Movement Uganda (WoGEM Uganda), Action for Climate and Environmental Justice Uganda (ACEJ Uganda), and Green Walk Engineering Limited are demonstrating that climate action is not confined to conference halls and boardrooms but it is happening on the ground where communities are facing the realities of the climate crisis every day.
On 12 June 2026, WoGEM Uganda planted over 100 fruit trees at Kyigandalo Secondary School in Eastern Uganda. During this engagement, we reached more than 1,000 students and teachers, equipping them with climate knowledge and raising awareness about the importance of protecting and conserving our environment.
The students and teachers shared firsthand experiences of climate impacts, including rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, floods, and food insecurity. These challenges have disrupted school programs, affected attendance, and reduced academic performance. While many students were unfamiliar with climate change terminology, they clearly understood the value of trees in supporting healthy ecosystems and livelihoods.
This initiative demonstrates that climate action is not merely discussed at international conferences but is actively being implemented in communities that are among the most affected by climate change. By planting fruit trees, we are contributing to carbon sequestration, ecosystem restoration, food security, and community resilience while supporting the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
As global leaders continue to negotiate and follow up on climate finance commitments from Global North countries, grassroots organizations are already taking action. We are transferring climate knowledge to future generations, restoring degraded landscapes, and building resilient communities despite limited resources.
Students also highlighted the increasing levels of deforestation in their communities driven by demand for firewood, charcoal, and timber. These activities continue to worsen the climate crisis. During our discussions, we explored sustainable alternatives and emphasized the importance of transitioning towards decentralized renewable energy solutions that are affordable, accessible, inclusive, and sustainable for all.
Our engagement revealed an urgent need not only to transfer climate technologies but also to transform mindsets. Schools and communities must become centers of climate education where future generations are empowered with the knowledge and skills needed to respond to environmental challenges.
During the event, Ireen Twongirwe ED WoGEMUganda , spoke about the interconnected nature of climate change, gender equality, health, self-care, and wellbeing. Climate change disproportionately affects marginalized women, limiting access to livelihoods, healthcare, and sexual and reproductive health services while increasing stress, trauma, and mental health challenges.
Women often carry the burden of caregiving and household responsibilities, making them particularly vulnerable to climate shocks.
I emphasized the importance of self-care and collective wellbeing within climate justice movements. The struggle for climate justice did not begin with us, and it will not end with us. This reality calls for collective action, solidarity, and the courage to share our stories, heal from injustices, and challenge systems of inequality and patriarchy that continue to marginalize communities.
It is important to remember that Africa contributes less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, yet bears some of the most severe consequences of climate change. While climate finance remains essential, we cannot afford to wait indefinitely for commitments to be fulfilled. The climate crisis is already here, and communities need solutions today.
Across Uganda, communities are using indigenous knowledge and local innovation to advance climate and gender justice. The fruit trees we planted will not only help reduce emissions but will also contribute to household incomes, improve nutrition, and support local economic development. This is climate action that benefits both people and the planet.
Real climate solutions already exist within our communities. What is needed now is greater recognition, direct funding, and investment in grassroots-led adaptation and mitigation efforts.
Nothing for us without us.
Climate Justice Now.
The writer is the Executive Director Women for Green Economy Movement Uganda (WoGEM) Uganda.
