The National State of the Environment Report 2024 (NSOER) offers a comprehensive assessment of Uganda’s environmental governance, aligning national policies with global commitments such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the National Development Plan IV. It highlights the roles of key institutions, including the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE), the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and the National Forestry Authority (NFA), in tackling environmental challenges through collaboration with local governments, civil society non governmental organisation and international partners. 

The report identifies key drivers of environmental change, including rapid population growth, urbanization, economic development, and climate change. These factors exacerbate deforestation, habitat loss, and resource depletion, while contributing to poverty and inequality among the citizens. Climate change impacts, such as rising temperatures, floods, and droughts, further disrupt ecosystems health and agriculture. In addition, air pollution, water contamination, land degradation, and biodiversity loss are major concerns that need to be tackled. 

Despite these challenges, Government of Uganda has implemented policies to mitigate environmental damage, including enforcement of air quality standards, water resource management, and natural resources conservation. The country’s biodiversity remains globally significant, with unique ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and savannas that are continuously threatened by human activities. Efforts to restore forest cover and protect endangered species, including mountain gorillas, are underway, with goals to increase forest cover from 12% in 2021 to 21% by 2030. 

Urbanization, waste management, and agricultural practices continue to pose challenges, but initiatives like climate-smart agriculture, waste recycling, and sustainable tourism are being promoted. The energy sector, through the green growth strategy, is transitioning to renewable energy sources, including hydropower, solar, and geothermal energy to reduce dependence on biomass as a major source of energy. 

Looking forward, Uganda aims to achieve environmental resilience by 2040 through strategies focused on renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and green infrastructure. Key actions include strengthening regulations, promoting green technologies and enhancing community involvement to ensure sustainable and impactful development for the present and future generations. 

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