How geopolitical shocks and energy crises are derailing Africa’s climate goals

Global conflicts and energy crises are disrupting Africa's climate goals, despite the continent's climate agenda being focused on environmental shocks. Dr Oulie Keita, Executive Director of Greenpeace Africa, explains that distant global events can lead to immediate economic impacts in Africa. For instance, military escalation in West Asia can cause fuel prices to spike, shipping lanes to be clogged, and currency volatility to increase.

This economic fallout affects already strained households and public resources. In response to recent energy supply shocks, several African nations have implemented measures like rationing electricity, restricting consumption in high-power sectors, and prioritizing fuel for security institutions. These actions demonstrate the vulnerability of African economies to external shocks.

While Africa's climate agenda aims to prepare for environmental challenges, it is increasingly influenced by geopolitical events. These events can disrupt shipping routes, raise the cost of essential imports, and delay climate investments. The impact of these disruptions falls hardest on communities already facing climate impacts, high food prices, and insecure livelihoods.

Climate disruption is the intersection of climate change and geopolitical shocks, which can undermine a country's ability to prepare for and respond to climate change. To address this, climate action must be seen as a governance challenge that involves finance, trade, energy, agriculture, and infrastructure sectors. Decisions in these areas can determine whether climate commitments are delivered or deferred.