Using ICTs to Address Water Challenges in Uganda

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) can play an important role in helping communities prepare for and adapt to the effects of climate change. Various projects can attest to the potential of using emerging technologies such as mobile phones and conventional technologies such as radio broadcasts for gathering information and disseminating adaptation options. However, not much is known about how communication technologies can be used to improve the adaptive capacity of communities to address the issue of climate-induced water stress.

This project is therefore designed to better understand how the ability of individuals and communities can be enhanced to plan for and respond to climate-induced water challenges. It will do so by testing the electronic dissemination of seasonal forecasts, early warning messages and adaptation options in four pilot districts representing a range of agro-ecological conditions and water management zones (Soroti, Nakasongola. Rakai, Sembabule). The four sites are located in the cattle corridor, one of the most fragile ecosystems in the country.