Upcoming CLARS Stakeholder Workshops in Kenya and Uganda Focus on Climate Change and Vulnerabilities

As the effects of climate change continue to intensify across East Africa, two significant upcoming events aim to address the growing vulnerability of displaced communities and marginalized groups. The CLARS (Climate Adaptation and Resilience Strategies) stakeholder workshops in Kenya and Uganda will bring together a diverse range of experts, policymakers, and community leaders to discuss climate change’s differential impacts and explore practical solutions. According to Dr. Gail Krantzberg, Lead PI of CLARS, ‘In the Lake Victoria Basin extreme weather events are pushing communities into cities and damaging people’s sense of place. Our intent is to prepare communities for an influx of people who need homes, water and other resources. Our goal is to translate research into action.'“.

CLARS Stakeholder Workshop in Kenya: Addressing Gender and Social Inequalities in the Face of Climate Change

On April 4, 2025, Kisii University in Kenya will host the inaugural CLARS Stakeholder Workshop at the Senate Chambers. This event will focus on how climate change exacerbates existing gender and social inequalities, along with other climate-related socio-economic vulnerabilities (SEVs). The research team will present their initial findings, shedding light on the challenges faced by women and girls who are displaced by climate-induced disasters such as floods, droughts, extreme temperatures, and landslides.

The workshop aims to examine the unique vulnerabilities of these groups and explore adaptation and mitigation strategies that can alleviate their plight. Participants will engage in discussions on how policymakers, government representatives, the business community, academics, and the wider public can collaborate to address these challenges. The workshop will also emphasize the importance of enhancing research uptake and developing practical solutions to improve the resilience of affected communities.

“This workshop is an important opportunity to explore the intersections of climate change, gender, and displacement, and to work together on strategies that can support vulnerable populations,” said Dr. Savitri Jetoo, CLARS Project Manager. “We are looking forward to a productive conversation that leads to concrete actions for climate resilience.”

CLARS Stakeholder Workshop in Uganda: Focusing on Refugees and IDPs in the Context of Climate Change

On May 13, 2025, Mbarara University of Science and Technology in Uganda will host the first CLARS Stakeholder Workshop, focusing on the theme "Resilient Together: Climate Adaptation for Refugees and IDPs." This event will delve into the unique vulnerabilities faced by refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs), particularly in light of climate-induced hazards such as floods, droughts, extreme temperatures, and landslides.

The research team will present insights into the intersection of climate mobility and socio-economic vulnerabilities among refugees and IDPs, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges they face. Additionally, the preparedness of cities and communities to handle an influx of displaced individuals due to climate change will be examined. Participants will have the opportunity to explore their roles in addressing these challenges, from enhancing the uptake of climate adaptation research to implementing effective strategies that build resilience among the displaced population.

“We’re excited to bring together stakeholders from across sectors to discuss how we can improve resilience and create sustainable solutions for refugees and IDPs affected by climate change,” said Dr. Cedric Nkiko, CLARS LVB lead. “This workshop is a crucial step towards ensuring that no one is left behind in the face of climate change.”

Both workshops are designed to foster collaboration between a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including policymakers, government officials, business leaders, academics, and community members. The goal is to not only discuss the challenges posed by climate change but also identify and implement tangible solutions that will contribute to long-term climate resilience.

As East Africa grapples with increasing climate-related disasters, these workshops will play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s approach to climate adaptation, ensuring that vulnerable groups, particularly women, girls, refugees, and IDPs, are supported in the face of growing climate threats.