Climate change is a global crisis with severe consequences for health and well-being. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2018), climate change causes approximately 150,000 deaths annually, a number projected to rise to 250,000 per year by 2050. The impacts are disproportionately severe for women and girls, increasing maternal and neonatal mortality risks during disasters (UNFPA, 2015). In Uganda, these effects are evident one in four girls aged 15-19 years has had a child or is pregnant, and 28% of maternal deaths occur among young girls aged 15-25 years. Moreover, 34% of girls are married by the age of 18, and young people are responsible for 34% of new HIV infections annually (UNFPA, 2022). Climate change-induced disasters in Uganda exacerbate these vulnerabilities, leading to healthcare disruptions, early marriages, unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and maternal deaths (IOM, 2022; 2023).
At Partners for Healthy Individuals and Communities (PHIC), we recognize the critical intersection between climate change and Health including Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). We are committed to empowering young people with the knowledge and tools to adapt to climate change and mitigate its impacts, ensuring a healthier and more resilient future for our communities.
Over the past, one-year PHIC has implemented the following activities to foster Climate action;
- Developing and disseminating IEC Materials on Climate Change and SRHR: These materials are designed to educate communities about the interconnectedness of climate change and SRHR, highlighting the importance of climate action in safeguarding reproductive health. By providing clear, accessible information, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of how climate change affects health outcomes and empowering individuals to take action.
- Creating awareness in schools: Understanding that Human activities are the leading cause of Climate change, PHIC has implemented awareness programs in schools across Uganda. These programs educate students about the impacts of climate change on their health and well-being, particularly in relation to SRHR. By engaging with young minds, we hope to inspire a generation of climate-conscious individuals who are equipped to advocate for both environmental sustainability and reproductive health.
- SMS Campaigns targeting Young Women and Men (Aged 10-24 Years): To reach a broader audience, PHIC has utilized SMS campaigns to deliver targeted messages about climate change and its impact on SRHR. These messages are tailored to young women and men aged 10-24 years; by leveraging SMS technology, we are able to provide timely and relevant information that encourages young people to take climate action and promotes SRHR.
At PHIC, we believe that empowering young people with knowledge about climate change and its intersection with SRHR is crucial for building resilient communities. By integrating climate action into our SRHR programs, we are not only addressing immediate health needs but also contributing to the long-term sustainability of our planet. we remain committed to ensuring that the voices of young people are heard, and their futures are protected.
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