Exploring the Potential Influence of Weather Patterns and Anthropogenic Activities on Biodiversity and Disease Burden in Uganda

Abstract

This study was aimed at exploring the potential impact of weather patterns and human activities on biodiversity and disease burden in Uganda. Changes in weather patterns and anthropogenic activities are evident in Uganda and are posing a serious threat to the country’s natural resources, biodiversity and health, as well as the social and economic development. Changes have been predicted to continue in the form of higher temperatures and inter-annual rainfall variability. Emergence and re-emergence of pests and diseases, and increasing frequency of severe floods will continue presenting social and economic hardships. Loss of plant mass due to reduced rainfall and high temperatures, promoting desertification will disturb the symbiotic relationship between plants and animals including insects. Some species of plants and animals may suffer extinction or change in locations and/or behaviour. Controlled anthropogenic activities, enforcement of existing policies and regulations on sustainable use of ecosystem resources, awareness raising to all stakeholders, strengthening institutional capacity to design and implement adaptation and mitigation strategies and improved monitoring of weather patterns and biodiversity are recommended.