Study Site: Adjumani and Lamwo, Northern Uganda 

Uganda hosts an estimated 1.5 million refugees in 13 districts. Adjumani and Lamwo (Palabek) host an estimated 208,422 and 71,195 refugees, respectively. The influx of refugees and the increasing host population put pressure on available natural resources, including the green ecosystem, which affects surface and underground water. These, in the long run, have an impact on the environment and people’s well-being. However, people’s perceptions of climate change and its impacts are unknown. This study aims to improve the understanding and perspectives of refugees and the host population in the Adjumani and Lamwo districts regarding climate change challenges on their health and well-being.  

The project will identify adaptation measures to mitigate the effects of climate change and inform national policy and the local authorities in Uganda on the various areas and population subgroups to focus on climate change mitigation strategies. 

Main Research Questions 

  • What are the perceptions of the refugees and host communities regarding climate change and its impact on population health and well-being in the two refugee hosting districts of Adjumani and Lamwo? 

  • What are the factors (including socio-demographic and economic) associated with the perceived climate change challenges experienced by the refugee and host communities in Adjumani and Lamwo (Palabek) refugee settlements?  

  • What are the views of the refugee and host population regarding the adaptations needed to mitigate the effects of climate change on the health and welfare of communities in the Adjumani and Lamwo districts? 

Research Team 

  • Dr. Christopher Garimoi Orach (Prinicpal Investigator)- Professor, Makerere University, Uganda 

  • Dr. Amos Deogratius Mwaka (Co-Prinicpal Investigator) - Professor, Makerere University 

  • Esther Amulen-Research Associate, Makerere Universit 

  • Jennifer Achan- Research Associate, Makerere University 

  • Goddie Geofrey Okeny- Researcher/Data Analyst, Makerere University