By Diana N. Kintu
Uganda has expanded the Local Climate Adaptive Living Facility (LoCAL) to 24 districts, up from just four pilot districts in 2023, following a new commitment of USD 23.4 million from Denmark.
According to a statement, the scale-up was announced during the 4th Annual National LoCAL Workshops held in Moroto (21–23 April) and Gulu (28–30 April). The workshops were convened under the co-leadership of the Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Water and Environment, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, National Planning Authority, and the Office of the Prime Minister, in partnership with the United Nations Capital Development Fund.
The benefiting districts include Kasese, Nebbi, Nwoya, Nakapiripirit, Zombo, Kikuube, Koboko, Bulambuli, Kitgum, Nabilatuk, Agago, Kiboga, Kotido, Moroto, Bukedea, Bukwo, Butaleja, Pallisa, Napak, Amuru, Gulu, Kyankwanzi, Terego and Rwampara.
Opening the workshop, Mr Ben Kumumanya, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Local Government, emphasised the importance of the initiative.
“LoCAL is Uganda’s gateway to locally led climate finance, ensuring resources reach the last mile while promoting sustainable investments,” he said.
The LoCAL mechanism integrates performance-based climate resilience grants within the Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfer System, complemented by technical assistance and capacity building to strengthen community resilience. It is supported by development partners including the Embassy of Denmark, the Embassy of Ireland, the Kingdom of Belgium, the European Union and the NDC Partnership.
District leaders welcomed the facility, describing it as both timely and transformative. District chairpersons expressed appreciation for being selected, noting that the intervention comes at a critical time for communities already affected by climate change. They pledged to ensure effective implementation, adherence to guidelines and accountability in order to achieve strong performance in the next national assessment.
Speaking on behalf of the districts, Mr Yusuf Akubonabona, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer of Nwoya District, commended the Ministry and partners, noting that the support comes at a crucial time for districts long affected by climate risks. He expressed hope for further expansion to reach more vulnerable areas.
Ms Justine Adrain, UNCDF Representative, emphasised the need for sustained momentum.
“The Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Local Government and UNCDF must continue to scale up and mobilise more resources to extend this support to additional districts,” she said, highlighting Denmark’s USD 23.4 million commitment.
Over the past four years, 14 districts have delivered UGX 14 billion in locally led adaptation investments. With the new expansion, government plans to transfer UGX 17 billion in the 2026/27 financial year through Performance-Based Climate Resilient Grants to the 24 districts, supporting continued investments under the National Development Plan IV, aligned with Uganda Vision 2040, and complementing initiatives such as the Parish Development Model.
Closing the workshop, Mr J.J. Ettedu, Assistant Commissioner for District Administration, reminded participants that impact lies in action. “The true value of this training is in implementation. Let us take these lessons back to our districts, move beyond resolutions, and work together with integrity to build a more climate-resilient Uganda,” he said.