Assessing the effectiveness of the adaptation measures for addressing climate change impacts on people with disabilities in Bwaise in Kampala slums.

Abstract

Climate change disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations, particularly individuals with disabilities. This research assessed the effectiveness of climate change adaptation measures for people with disabilities in Kampala slums, Uganda, where rapid urbanization and poverty exacerbate vulnerability to climate-related hazards. The study was guided by the following objectives: to describe the different forms of disabilities prevalent among people living in the Kampala slums of Bwaise and Katanga, to assess the impacts of climate change on people living with disabilities in these areas, and to analyze the effectiveness of existing climate change adaptation measures in addressing their needs. Through qualitative and quantitative research methods, the study found that 53.23% of people with disabilities (PWDs) in Bwaise face challenges in accessing adaptation measures. The most prevalent disabilities were physical (41.67%), followed by sensory (30%), cognitive (23.33%), and physiological (5%). The research further revealed that climate change impacts, including changes in rain seasons (93.55%), increased temperatures (93.55%), floods (51.61%), and droughts (77.42%), disproportionately affect PWDs. Chi-square analysis indicated that while most climate change variables, such as changes in rain seasons and increased temperatures, did not show significant associations with disabilities, increased frequency of hailstorms (χ² = 5.073, p = 0.079) and increased incidence of pests and diseases (χ² = 5.161, p = 0.076) approached statistical significance, suggesting potential links that warrant further investigation. While community awareness (33.87%) and specialized services (19.35%) were perceived as somewhat effective adaptation measures, many PWDs still face significant barriers to access. Recommendations for more inclusive and targeted adaptation policies are provided to enhance resilience in this marginalized community. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on inclusive climate adaptation and offers insights for policymakers and practitioners in urban slum settings.