In 2023, 15,700 people have lost their lives to extreme weather disasters in Africa, while another 34 million have been affected, highlighting the urgent need for action at COP28, says African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC).
In a recent report, ARC observed that 2023 has been a year of “climate carnage” in Africa, adding that these devastating statistics represent a “human emergency on an unprecedented scale,” which comes as the global community prepares for COP28.
In Libya alone, more than 11,300 people died in September when Storm Daniel caused two dams to overflow in the coastal city of Derna.
Citing research, ARC suggested that climate change was to blame for increasing the probability and intensity of this extreme weather event by as much as 50%. A further 20 other flood disasters occurred across the continent in 2023, affecting numerous countries.
ARC’s report also underlined the frequency of tropical cyclones, which are said to be happening with “alarming regularity.”
Meanwhile, the Horn of Africa has been gripped by persistent drought conditions, impacting more than 29 million people.
“The devastating impact of several extreme weather events in one year in Africa serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of climate change,” ARC said.
The firm continued, “This continental crisis must catalyse a transformative climate agenda that prioritises the vulnerable, and COP28 presents an opportunity for actionable and results-oriented strategies to take centre stage.
“The time has come to move beyond vision and mission to actively shape a future where extreme weather does not dictate the fate of Africa.”
