Uganda, April 22 -- Earth Day 2026, marked on April 22 under the theme "Our power, our planet," challenges us to rethink where power truly lies in the fight against climate change. While global conversations often centre on energy transitions, real transformation will depend on local solutions that reach those most exposed. For countries like Uganda, that raises a harder question: can climate finance work for those who need it most?

 At daybreak, a smallholder farmer in Namutumba, Busoga region, walks through her garden frowning. Her groundnuts are yielding poorly again. The rains, once predictable, now come too late or last only a short while. She used to estimate her harvest with confidence, ensuring she could meet her basic needs...