Climate Change Action at Africa Climate Summit 2, Addis Ababa 2025
Climate Change present the most daunting change of the 20th century. No region captures the worlds paradox as vividly as Africa. Although it produces less than 4% of global greenhouse emissions, Africa faces some of the most severe impacts of Climate Change.
In major cities and grass roots communities, climate realities are no longer a distant scientific projection but lived experience ; intense heat waves, costal erosion, floods, prolonged draught and biodiversity loss.
These phenomena bring about serious social and economic consequences such as food insecurity, resource based conflicts , population displacement and strained public health systems.
STRACTURAL DYNAMICS.
- Rapid demographic growth . African population is growing faster than any other region in the world, this growth places African the Centre of global demographic projection, with a large portion being young people. while these “youth bulge” presents opportunities for innovation and a strong labor force, it also increases pressure on jobs, education systems , healthcare , housing and other essential services.
- Youth unemployment; dispute being the most energetic and innovative group, young people in Africa faces high unemployment rate, this situation undermines social stability, increases poverty and may fuel frustration, and even conflicts if the opportunities remains limited.
- Accelerated Urbanization; Many African countries are experiencing rapid migration from rural areas to cities. this fast paced urbanization often happens without corresponding expansion in infrastructure , such as housing, transport, sanitations etc. leading over population and slums development and over stretches public service.
- Climate Change as a Multiplier of Vulnerability; Climate Charge adversely affects the existing social and economic inequalities. It increases the risks such as drought, floods and food insecurity. These inordinately affecting poor and marginalized communities. actually it doesn’t create a new problem, it magnifies the existing problem.
PATHWAY TO ACTION .
- Initiation of Reforestation Campaigns; planting trees help to restore ecosystem, improve soil health, reduces the erosion and carbon sequestration. reforestation can also create employments and support biodiversity conservation
- Promoting Agroecology ; This is the combination of traditional farming methods with modern sustainable practice. this reduces dependence on chemicals fertilizers and pesticides, improves food security and strengthens farmers resilience and adaptation to climate shock.
- Engaging in renewable Energy ; Embolden The use of biogas, solar, wing and other clean energy sources and reduce reliance on firewood and charcoal, supply of cheaper electricity in the off grid areas and promotion of sustainable economy.
- Use of digital tools to create awareness and influence change; Use of social media, mobile applications, AI and other platforms for advocacy and education . This can help to spread the information quickly and spread awareness, connect like minded individuals and hold leaders accountable. By Collins Onyango.
