Industrialization in the Era of Climate Change in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Purpose – The main objective of this study was to analyze the degree to which industrialization policies in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries have been responsive to climate change impacts. Design/Methodology/Approach – The study used a qualitative research design through a systematic literature review of various publications about industrialization and its impact on climate change in SSA countries, particularly in Tanzania. Findings – The findings revealed that industrialization in SSA has significantly contributed to the climate change negative impacts. Moreover, many countries in SSA have implemented policies that promote adaptation and mitigation of the climate change impacts but these policies have not managed to balance both combating climate change impacts and addressing the issues of social inequality. This situation threatens the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) number 13 which emphasizes urgent action to combat climate change, as well as SDG number 10 which emphasizes reducing inequality across the world. Implications/Originality/Value – This study recommends that the governments of SSA countries formulate green industrial policies to improve the national economy.