Global warming is the biggest trap we tend to ignore yet fall right into, countless times. Africans are always the victims. The Paris Agreement expects that all states should take action when addressing climate change, respect, promote, and consider their respective obligations on human rights.
However, African leaders fail to consider how severe these climate changes are. The well-being of the people should be their number one priority. Africans rely on rainfall for plantation in terms of agriculture, yet almost all African countries are undeveloped and infrastructure is a major issue.
African countries compliment themselves in several ways. The continent is rich in natural resources and commodities, including oil, minerals, agricultural products, and precious metals. These resources are often major exports. However, when a nation is dealing with the insane rise of temperatures and extreme weather events, labor productivity in sectors like agriculture and construction are delayed.
Well known researchers in Cameroon have discovered how the central and the southern part of Africa’s climate systems are linked. Governments must cooperate on a global scale. Yes, this may be an unavoidable dilemma, however, finding ways to deal with these challenges such as drought and floods should be prioritized.
Use of Technology in The Battle Against African Climate Change
According to the African Climate Summit 2023(ACS23), climate change poses significant risks to the global community, with physical effects causing substantial economic losses. Over the past decade, storms, wildfires, and floods have resulted in substantial GDP losses. Africa, in particular, faces severe climate-related challenges, including drought, desertification, and increasing cyclones, leading to displacement, migration, and food crises. In this article, we explore how technology is helping Africa deal with its climate challenges and paving the way for a sustainable future.
Africa is one of the most vulnerable continents to the impacts of climate change, with its diverse ecosystems, agricultural-dependent economies, and rapidly growing population facing increasing threats. However, technology offers a lifeline in the battle against climate change, providing innovative solutions to mitigate its effects and adapt to the changing environment in the following ways:
- Climate smart agricultural practices
It is with no doubt that agriculture, a cornerstone of many African economies, is being transformed by technology. These practices such as precision farming, drought-resistant crop varieties, and weather forecasting apps, are enhancing crop yields and reducing vulnerability to climate-related disruptions. Innovations in post-harvest management and food preservation are curbing food waste and improving food security.
2. Rural electrification through microgrids and decentralized energy solutions powered by renewable sources
This is still a great challenge in most African countries such as the DRC, Nigeria, Central Africa Republic, Malawi, South Sudan, Chad and many more others that are not easily traced online. However, how this challenge can be dealt with is by formulating a national energy policy or strategy that outlines the government’s commitment to expanding electricity access and provides a roadmap for achieving this goal.
3. Advanced architectural and construction technologies
This contributes to the development of energy-efficient, sustainable buildings that minimize energy consumption and emissions.
4. Computer models and simulations
These can predict the extent and impact of floods, helping authorities plan and allocate resources for flood response and evacuation. With an example of Florida in the US, who have ideas on when to expect these floods and how to take precautions, whereas some areas have to second guess the weather just by looking at the skies.
5. Satellites for monitoring drought
During drought, satellites are used to monitor water availability in reservoirs, rivers, and lakes, helping authorities manage water resources more effectively.
In conclusion, it’s important to note that the impact of global warming is not uniform across Africa, and different regions may experience varying degrees of vulnerability. As much as African countries are participating in international climate agreements, establishing, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track progress is a must in identifying challenges, and making necessary adjustments to cope with this mouse trap.
Written by: Feza Ponette