Women, climate change, and sustainable development in Africa

Abstract

Africa has been identified as the most vulnerable part of the developing world to climate change impact (CCI) with Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) regarded as the most vulnerable part of the continent. Women are the most active gender in the agricultural, health and environment sectors in SSA, and these sectors are expected to be most affected by CCI, with negative implications for attainment of sustainable development (SD). The study examined the role of women in adaptation and mitigation of climate change across SSA as well as attainment of SD in the region. It relied entirely on secondary data and narrative analysis was applied to the data. As a result of expected CCI, SSA faces the danger of not attaining the SDGs by 2030, except the right policies and mechanisms are put in place. Establishment of a new power structure across SSA that recognizes gender equality in all processes of formulation and implementation of public policies is recommended for achievement of SD.