State of the Climate in Africa 2021
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CAKE TeamPublished
Abstract
The report on the State of the Climate in Africa 2021 is the result of collaboration between the African Union Commission (AUC), the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and other specialized agencies of the United Nations. This multi-agency effort provides informed climate analysis, identifies notable hydro-meteorological events, impacts and risks, and suggests climate actions to build resilience of African nations. The 2021 report is the third in the series, with a special emphasis on water resources, a pivotal sector for human and ecosystem health and sustainable socio-economic development of Africa; view the first and second reports here.
State of the Climate in Africa reports are annual snapshots of science-based information for climate policy and decision-making in Africa. The African Union uses these reports in its leadership role to support member states in the implementation of weather- and climate-related strategic frameworks in Africa. The reports also provide relevant information to inform Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) of the climate situation, climate impacts, and gaps and needs for improving climate services in the region.
Temperature increases, heatwaves, extensive floods, tropical cyclones, prolonged droughts, and rising sea levels resulting in the loss of lives, property damage, and population displacement undermine Africa’s ability to achieve its commitments to meet the targets of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, which outlines Africa’s path for attaining inclusive and sustainable economic growth and development.
Building and strengthening synergies among all stakeholders is critical for achieving sustainable water resources in Africa. Continental frameworks such as the Africa Water Vision for 2025: Equitable and Sustainable Use of Water for Socioeconomic Development are designed to avert and minimize the disastrous consequences of climate variability and change.
Member states are encouraged to consider establishing sustainable frameworks, such as a National Framework for Climate Services (NFCS), to support their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), especially with respect to weather, climate, and water-related hazards. To this effect, the key actions of external and internal resource mobilization, capacity development, and technology transfer must be undertaken as matter of urgency.
Citation
State of the Climate in Africa 2021. WMO-No. 1300. World Meteorological Organization (WMO), 2022. ISBN 978-92-63-11300-9.