On climate change and its impact on African economies
Dr. Lanre Towry-Coker, FRIBA, FNIA, MA Law (UL), Ph.D, a former commissioner for housing in Lagos State, with a doctorate from Lagos State University, is founder of Towry-Coker Associates since 1976, and a professional architect with a postgraduate qualification in Architecture from the University of North East London. He had his professional training at the world famous Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and is an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in the United Kingdom (ACI.Arb.); a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (FNIA), he was elected Fellow of The Royal Institute of British Architects, (founded 1834), in November 2016, and is one of only forty architects worldwide to be so honoured. He is also the author of the book, “Housing Policy And The Dynamics Of Housing Delivery In Nigeria: Lagos State As Case Study” published by Makeway Publishers, and available on Amazon and also at The Royal Institute of British Architects, Portland Place. London.
The impacts of climate change on African economies are multifaceted and potentially severe. The impacts are expected to be more pronounced due to the continent’s vulnerability.
Here are some key impacts:
Agricultural sector: Many African economies heavily rely on agriculture, thus making them particularly vulnerable. Climate change-induced droughts, erratic rainfall, and extreme weather events can significantly reduce crop yields, affecting food security and leading to economic losses for farmers as agricultural systems are disrupted.
Water resources: Decreased rainfall and changes in precipitation patterns can lead to water scarcity. This impacts not only agriculture but also industries relying on water, potentially affecting production and economic growth.
Energy sector: Many African nations depend on hydropower for electricity. Changes in water availability and droughts can impact energy generation, leading to power shortages and affecting industries and daily life.
Healthcare costs: Climate change can exacerbate health issues, leading to increased healthcare costs due to the spread of diseases and the need for better medical infrastructure to deal with heat-related illnesses and other climate-related health problems.
Infrastructure and property damage: Extreme weather events such as floods, storms, and sea-level rise can damage infrastructure, homes, and businesses, resulting in economic losses and reconstruction costs.
Tourism: Many African countries rely on tourism as a significant source of revenue. Climate change-induced impacts, such as damage to natural habitats, biodiversity loss, or changes in landscapes, can deter tourists, affecting the tourism industry and related businesses.
Migration and conflict: Climate change-induced resource scarcity can lead to increased migration as people seek more habitable areas, potentially leading to conflicts over land, water, and other resources. This instability can impact economic development and growth.
Education as a ‘low hanging fruit’ towards understanding of the problem
Since education is a daily occurrence in almost every community and in every country on the continent of Africa, it makes sense to focus on the importance of learning about climate change and its impacts on the environment that schools are located in. Many climate focused programmes run by non profit organisations and funded by them are available as teaching tools. Education acts as a shortcut for the next generation in understanding the perils of climate change and doing nothing to mitigate its devastating consequences.
Addressing these economic impacts requires concerted efforts in climate adaptation and mitigation strategies, investing in renewable energy, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, building climate-resilient infrastructure, and strengthening economic diversification beyond sectors highly vulnerable to climate change. International cooperation and financial support are crucial to assist African nations in mitigating these challenges.