Africa is facing severe climate change impacts despite being a minimal contributor to global emissions. The continent requires significant financial resources for adaptation, yet lacks adequate investment and governance. As its population grows, Africa must take action to improve resilience and address both external and internal challenges.

Africa, despite contributing only 4 percent of global carbon emissions, faces severe consequences from climate change driven largely by developed nations. With a growing population projected to double by 2070, the continent is struggling to achieve development while adapting to climate impacts. The cost of adaptation is estimated between $30 billion and $50 billion annually, an amount that most African nations cannot afford.

The climate crisis disproportionately affects Africa, an irony considering the continent possesses abundant natural resources. External factors, particularly the historical negligence of industrialized nations towards environmental standards, compound Africa’s plight. Significant challenges include poverty, low productivity, and weak governance structures, hindering necessary progress.

To effectively address the climate crisis, Africa must enhance governance, secure greater financial support from developed nations, and prioritize reforming internal weaknesses. Innovative approaches to agriculture and renewable energy are essential to increase resilience to climate impacts. Only through these efforts can Africa hope to combat the dire consequences of a crisis to which it contributed little.

Original Source: businessday.ng