Lira, Uganda | Miss Tourism Uganda and National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Ambassador Rita Angwech has called upon Ugandans to take personal responsibility in protecting the environment, warning that climate change is already threatening livelihoods, food security, and economic development across the country.
In a press statement issued to mark World Environment Day 2026, Angwech said that the year’s theme, “Climate Action Begins With You, Act Now!”, serves as a reminder that addressing climate change requires both individual responsibility and collective action.
She noted that environmental conservation and tourism are closely linked, stressing that Uganda’s diverse wildlife, forests, wetlands, rivers, landscapes, and cultural heritage remain among the country’s most valuable assets. However, she warned that these resources are increasingly under threat from climate change, environmental degradation, and unsustainable human activities.
According to Angwech, the effects of climate change are already being felt through prolonged droughts, floods, unpredictable weather patterns, and loss of biodiversity, which continue to affect communities and undermine socio-economic progress.
She urged Ugandans, particularly the youth, to become active participants in climate action by embracing sustainable lifestyles, reducing pollution, supporting reforestation efforts, protecting wetlands, promoting renewable energy solutions, and championing environmental education in their communities.
Angwech emphasized that every action counts, noting that activities such as planting trees, properly disposing of plastic waste, and protecting wetlands can significantly contribute to building a climate-resilient Uganda.
As a NEMA environmental ambassador, she pledged to continue advocating for environmental stewardship and raising awareness on climate action while inspiring communities to safeguard the country’s natural heritage.
She further challenged citizens to move beyond awareness and take practical action, urging them to choose responsibility over indifference and sustainability over environmental destruction.
Angwech reiterated the World Environment Day message, emphasizing that climate action begins with every individual and calling on Ugandans to act now as the country joins global efforts to secure a sustainable future for generations to come.Headline: Miss Tourism Uganda–NEMA Queen Rita Angwech Calls for Urgent Climate Action
