Climate change continues to present significant challenges across Africa, affecting ecosystems, livelihoods, and economies (IPCC, 2022). These impacts are particularly severe in countries that rely heavily on climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture, water resources, and energy (Tofu et al., 2025). Disruptions in these sectors have far
reaching consequences (Uzoma et al., 2025). For instance, shifts in rainfall patterns, rising temperatures, and extreme weather events are causing crop failures, water scarcity, and increased frequency of disasters (Niang et al., 2014; Li et al., 2025). The direct impacts of climate change have profound implications for poverty, food security, and economic stability across the continent (Jain et al., 2023).
Several factors contribute to Africa’s vulnerability to climate change. Over-reliance on climate-sensitive sectors, particularly agriculture, which employs the majority of Africa’s population—heightens the risk for many nations (Doku et al., 2021a, 2021b; Phiri & Doku, 2024). Additionally, limited institutional, technological, and financial capacity constrains the ability of African countries to reduce emissions and build resilience against climate change (Oiganji et al., 2025). This challenge is exacerbated by a shortage of technical expertise and infrastructure, further hindering adaptation efforts and the development of innovative solutions to mitigate climate impacts (Mekonnen et al., 2021).
Regions such as Central, East, and West Africa are emerging as vulnerability hotspots, with some areas experiencing significantly higher mortality rates from climate-related events than less-affected regions (Olagunju et al., 2025). For example, climate-related mortality rates in high-vulnerability areas can be up to 15 times higher than in less
affected regions (Mbuvha et al., 2024). This stark contrast highlights the disproportionate impact of climate change on specific regions, with low-income and marginalized communities bearing the greatest burden.
National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) and Updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) from African countries emphasize the urgency of addressing these climate risks (Erbil, 2025). These documents highlight the rising costs and complexity of climate
challenges, warning that some damage may become irreversible if immediate action is not taken. Vulnerable populations, including women, children, and persons with disabilities, face heightened risks, as climate change exacerbates existing social and economic inequalities (Harmeling, 2018; Ozor et al., 2020; Webb, 2021)….
