By Salifu Faridat
According to a recent report from the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), annual food imports by African countries are projected to nearly triple, rising from $35 billion to $110 billion by the year 2025.
This significant increase is primarily attributed to the adverse effects of global warming, which disproportionately impact the continent.
Africa, despite contributing only a fraction of global greenhouse gas emissions, bears the brunt of climate-related challenges.
These consequences extend to various aspects of life, including food security, ecosystems, economies, displacement, migration, and an escalating threat of conflicts over diminishing resources.
The report, titled “State of the Climate in Africa 2022,” was jointly produced with the African Union Commission and the Africa Climate Policy Centre of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA).
It underscores the alarming rise in temperatures on the continent over recent decades, leading to more severe weather and climate-related hazards.
In 2022 alone, over 110 million people in Africa were directly affected by these hazards, resulting in economic damages exceeding $8.5 billion.
Tragically, there were approximately 5,000 reported fatalities, with drought and flooding accounting for the majority of these deaths.
However, underreporting suggests that the true toll is likely much higher.
The report’s release coincided with the Africa Climate Summit held in Kenya, where it was launched alongside the “Early Warnings for All in Africa Action Plan.” Kenya also presented its “State of the Climate in 2022” report during the summit.
Projections indicate that losses and damages due to climate change on the continent could range from $290 billion to $440 billion, depending on the degree of warming.
This includes economic losses, displacement, and the potential for conflicts over limited productive land, water, and pastures.
The report underscores the urgent need to address climate challenges in Africa and highlights the importance of implementing Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to combat climate change.
African countries have submitted their NDCs, with a focus on adaptation priorities such as agriculture, food security, water management, disaster risk reduction, and health.
Implementing Africa’s NDCs would require up to $2.8 trillion between 2020 and 2030.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has committed to doubling its climate finance to $25 billion by 2025, with a significant portion dedicated to adaptation efforts.
AfDB is also working to secure up to $13 billion for its Africa Development Fund to further support climate initiatives on the continent.