Leaders, scientists, and policymakers from across East Africa have convened in Entebbe (Uganda) for a high-level workshop aimed at strengthening the region’s resilience to worsening drought conditions.
The two-day meeting, held under the Enhancing Resilience to Extreme Drought Events in East Africa (INTERVENE) project, was officially opened by Eng. Coletha Ruhamya, Deputy Executive Secretary of the Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC).
In a speech read on behalf of the Commission and the East African Community (EAC), Ruhamya underscored the growing threat posed by drought across the region, warning that it has become a systemic risk affecting water security, agriculture, energy, and livelihoods.
“Recent severe droughts have led to depleted water sources, reduced agricultural production, livestock losses, rising food prices, and displacement,” she said, noting that vulnerable populations including women, children, and pastoral communities are disproportionately affected.
The workshop, brings together representatives from partner states, technical experts, and researchers to co-develop strategies that move the region from reactive crisis management to proactive drought preparedness.
The INTERVENE project is jointly implemented by the Lake Victoria Basin Commission and the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis, with funding support from the Austrian Development Cooperation.
Participants will focus on identifying key drivers of drought vulnerability, including climate variability, environmental degradation, rising water demand, and gaps in early warning systems.
The initiative aims to combine scientific modelling with local knowledge to design practical solutions.
A major outcome of the project will be the development of a Drought Preparedness and Response Strategy and Action Plan (DPRSP), intended to guide coordinated action across East African countries.
The strategy will define early warning triggers, institutional roles, and cross-border measures to protect shared water resources and livelihoods.
Ruhamya praised partner states for their commitment, particularly in appointing drought focal persons and supporting national coordination efforts.
She also highlighted the role of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development Climate Prediction and Applications Centre in providing critical drought monitoring and early warning services.
Experts and young researchers participating in the workshop were encouraged to collaborate across disciplines and translate research into actionable policies.
“As we engage, let us champion the sustainability and use of project deliverables to guide preparedness and investment decisions,” Ruhamya urged.
By Chris Mahandara
