afrol News, 23 November - A study commissioned by Barclays says Africa’s weak economies have lost up to 15 percent of its Gross Domestic Product to climate change, warning that they could be swamped by uncertainties if the effects of climate change are not averted.

The report said the worst effects of climate change can still be avoided if greenhouse gas emissions are reduced soon, though revealing that the change has already locked in.

The report analyses three economies of Kenya, Ghana and South Africa, all of which were found to be exposed to future climate impacts on water resources, sea level rise, agriculture, energy and urban populations.

The report proposed that improvements in understanding the science of African climate are needed, to provide more comprehensive projections that can inform commercial decision-making and risk management.

It further called for forward planning to adapt to the shifting patterns of climate to minimise the impact by building resilience in communities and businesses alike.

It said in Kenya risks to tea production, wildlife and coastal tourism are of key concern, while Ghana has large and potentially vulnerable cocoa and forestry sectors and relies on hydropower for around 66 percent of its electricity, which can impact its mining sector.

Despite being the most diversified economy on the continent, the study revealed that South Africa still faces risks to coastal populations and water shortages impacting industry, particularly mining and coal-fired power generation.

The report further showed that with the exception of South Africa, most economies are reliant on rain-fed agriculture and tourism, which are some of the most exposed sectors to climate changes.

The report called for concerted efforts from governments and businesses to manage the continent’s current climate exposure and build resilience to this challenge.

Many Africa states including the Horn of Africa have been hit by unwavering climate changes which has left most parts of Africa dry while others are flooded by the never ending torrential rains.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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