KAMPALA, Uganda – The Minister for Disaster Preparedness and Management, Hon. Engola Sam, today hosted a courtesy visit from the IGAD Mission to Uganda, led by H.E. Ms. Joselyn Bigirwa, at his office in Kampala.
The meeting provided a platform for high-level discussions on IGAD's vital support for Uganda's health, education, agriculture, and water infrastructure sectors. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in these critical areas, which are essential for the country's sustainable development and resilience building.
A key highlight of the discussions was IGAD's reaffirmation of its commitment to Uganda's Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (U-MHIEWS). The implementation of this critical disaster risk reduction initiative is scheduled for October to December 2026, marking a significant milestone in enhancing the country's capacity to predict, prepare for, and respond to natural hazards.
Minister Engola expressed his appreciation for IGAD's continued partnership, noting that the upcoming support for national disaster and preparedness programs would further bolster Uganda's efforts to safeguard communities and livelihoods against the impacts of disasters.
"This partnership continues to grow stronger, and we are grateful for IGAD's invaluable collaboration," said Minister Engola. "The U-MHIEWS system will be a game-changer in our disaster preparedness efforts, enabling us to save lives and protect property more effectively."
H.E. Ms. Joselyn Bigirwa, the IGAD Mission Head, reiterated the organization's dedication to supporting Uganda's development agenda and disaster resilience initiatives. She commended the government's proactive approach to disaster management and expressed confidence in the successful implementation of the upcoming programs.
The courtesy visit underscores the enduring partnership between Uganda and IGAD, reflecting a shared vision for regional stability, sustainable development, and enhanced disaster preparedness across the Horn of Africa region.
