African nations are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Although the continent contributes relatively little to the global greenhouse gas emissions causing climate change, it is the continent that is most affected.

Africa’s climate has warmed more than the global average resulting in unpredictable rainfall patterns and more extreme weather events. Sea-level rise around African coastlines has been faster too, triggering more frequent and severe floods, erosion, and salinity in low-lying cities.

Africa’s economic and social development challenges are sometimes given as a reason why climate change should not be a priority. However, climate change poses a serious threat to human health and safety, food, water and energy security, political stability and economies. So climate change will amplify the continent’s development challenges. Add that to the continent’s projected population growth – 2.5 billion by 2050 – and the real question is how can Africa NOT prioritise climate change.