Africa is taking center stage in the fight against climate change, according to Temitope Adeoye, a climate advocate and founder of the FactCheck Initiative.
Adeoye emphasized that despite the continent’s climate-related challenges, Africans are responding with innovative solutions and grassroots actions to combat the crisis.
He questioned, “What does climate change really mean to the average Nigerian, or for that matter, to the average African?” pointing out that for many, the issue feels distant, and its real-world impact is not always fully understood.
He noted that climate change is no longer an abstract issue for Africans, highlighting its profound effects on daily life, from erratic rainfall patterns and prolonged droughts to rising health challenges.
“The impacts of climate change are everywhere—on our farms, in our homes, and even in our hospitals,” he said, reflecting on his own struggles with malaria, which he experiences multiple times a year due to changing environmental conditions.
Driven by this curiosity, Adeoye has delved into the realities of climate change in Africa, uncovering insights and offering solutions tailored to the continent’s unique needs. Through surveys and community discussions, he has uncovered significant gaps in climate awareness across the continent. According to him, many people still perceive climate change as a distant issue.
“In a survey I conducted recently, Emeka from Nigeria associates it with unpredictable rainfall, while Zanele from South Africa views it as a governmental concern rather than a personal one. Lilian from Kenya dismissed it as ‘something rich countries worry about,’ unaware of its direct impact on local droughts,” he stated.
To address the disconnect in climate awareness, Adeoye, through the FactCheck Initiative, developed the Kaci Help Mobile App, a platform, one of its functions being to educate and empower Africans to take action on climate change. Available in 11 languages, the app ensures inclusivity and accessibility for diverse communities across the continent.
The app simplifies complex climate concepts by offering practical, relatable solutions tailored to local contexts, such as switching to energy-efficient bulbs, reducing food waste, and providing tips on composting. “It makes climate action accessible and understandable, even for those without formal education,” Adeoye explained.
“Africa’s potential for combating climate change is immense. We have abundant sunlight, vast natural resources, and innovative minds. The challenge lies in translating this potential into widespread action,” Adeoye said.
Highlighting real-life examples of the crisis, Adeoye pointed to Kenyan farmers battling alternating cycles of droughts and floods, Cape Town’s severe water shortages, and rising sea levels displacing families in Nigeria’s Niger Delta. “These stories aren’t just statistics; they are lived realities that underscore the urgency of action,” he stated.
Adeoye also advocates for systemic solutions, such as adopting renewable energy. He shared his personal experience of installing solar panels to reduce reliance on the national grid, urging others to explore similar options. “Solar energy isn’t just sustainable, it’s practical for Africa,” he said.
Additionally, the Nigerian government, through the Presidential CNG Initiative (Pi-CNG), has been actively encouraging citizens to switch to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles as a more environmentally friendly alternative to regular gasoline-powered cars, further promoting greener energy solutions across the country.
International efforts, such as commitments made at COP29, are also critical. This year’s conference focused on financial support for developing nations, with developed countries pledging $300 billion annually by 2035 to aid climate adaptation and mitigation.
However, Adeoye stressed the importance of ensuring that these pledges translate into tangible benefits for African communities. “Global cooperation is vital, but local action is where the real change happens,” he said.
As the effects of climate change become increasingly evident, Adeoye remains optimistic about Africa’s future.
“This is a story of resilience and innovation. Africa is not just a victim of climate change; it’s at the forefront of the fight to combat it,” he concluded.
Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.
