The Impact of Climate Change On Child Marriage and Teenage Pregnancy After the Discovery of Oil and Gas in Midwestern Uganda

Abstract

Climate change is increasingly becoming as a threat to the health, education, and economic empowerment of girls and women. In Midwestern Uganda, climate-related stressors such as droughts, floods, and landslides are exacerbating poverty, food insecurity, and displacement, which in turn are contributing to increased rates of child marriage and teenage pregnancy. This study assesses the impact of climate change on child marriage and teenage pregnancy in Midwestern Uganda

Using a mixed-methods approach, we collected data from 800 girls aged 15-24 in three districts of Masindi, Buliisa, and Hoima in Midwestern Uganda. Our findings indicate that climate-related stressors are increasing the vulnerability of girls to child marriage and teenage pregnancy. Girls from households that experienced climate-related stocks were more likely to be married or pregnant and had lower levels of education and economic empowerment.

The study highlights the need for climate-informed policies and programs that address the intersecting impacts of climate change on child marriage and teenage pregnancy. Recommendations include increasing access to climate-resilient education and economic empowerment programs for girls and providing climate information and support to households to reduce their vulnerability to climate-related shocks.