Africa: Who Needs A Seat at the Climate Crisis Table? #AfricaClimateHope

Women and youth are deeply affected by climate change, yet their potential as powerful stakeholders and change agents is often overlooked in climate policies and decisions, reports the Institute for Security Studies (ISS). However, the discussion must also incorporate other marginalised groups who are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as low-income communities, developing countries, children, indigenous people, the elderly, coastal communities, and small island states.

Africa is experiencing a range of devastating effects due to climate change, such as the loss of biodiversity, ecosystem degradation, and an escalation in natural disasters such as floods and droughts, which are becoming more frequent and severe. Human activities, especially greenhouse gas emissions, are the primary drivers of these changes. To mitigate the negative impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities, it is crucial to tackle the root causes of the problem, which involves reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices.

The ISS facilitated a virtual panel discussion for young Africans to exchange experiences and engage policymakers in creating solutions and developing recommendations for government leaders to address climate change.

Ottilia Anna Maunganidze, moderator and Head of Special Projects in the Office of the Executive Director at ISS, emphasized the pressing need to address climate change and its impact on vulnerable communities during a panel discussion. She cited the devastating effects of Cyclone Freddy, which recently caused significant damage and displacement, resulting in loss of life and forced relocation in the Southern African region.

According to Maunganidze, the catastrophic event was a clear reminder of the urgent need to take action on climate change, especially in vulnerable communities.