Africa's Climate Politics and Policies: Old Wine in a New Bottle.

Climate change is one of the most urgent global issues of our time, affecting not only individual nations but also the entire world. Africa is one of the continents most impacted by climate change, as rising temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, and rising sea levels reduce crop yields and exacerbate food insecurity. Despite this, the political landscapes of many African nations continue to be dominated by politicians who prioritise their own interests over the needs of the environment and the general population.

According to a report by the African Development Bank, Africa is the continent most susceptible to the effects of climate change, as over 60 percent of its population depends on agriculture for subsistence. This is expected to increase due to population growth and a changing climate, resulting in food insecurity and poverty. In addition, the report predicts that Africa will suffer some of the greatest economic losses as a result of climate change, with a loss of up to 11 percent of GDP by the end of the century.

One of the primary reasons for this is the continued exploitation of Africa's natural resources for the benefit of corporations and wealthy individuals, often with disregard for the long-term effects of these actions. For example, the fossil fuel industry is a major contributor to climate change, but African governments are frequently willing to turn a blind eye to the damage being done to maintain positive relationships with powerful corporations. This puts the environment and the future of the continent in jeopardy while allowing a minority to profit at the expense of the majority. According to a report by the Climate Policy Initiative, over 75 percent of Africa's energy still comes from nonrenewable sources, perpetuating the cycle of climate change, pollution, and environmental degradation.

Lack of political will to address the problem is another factor. In countries where poverty, conflict, and disease dominate the political landscape, climate change is a low priority for many African politicians. Despite the overwhelming scientific evidence to the contrary, they may also be influenced by the arguments of those who deny the existence of climate change or consider it a minor issue. According to a report by the African Climate Policy Centre, only 44% of African countries have implemented or plan to implement climate change policies, and only 32% have ratified the Paris Agreement.

This lack of political will is also evident in Africa's lack of investment in renewable energy, despite the continent's abundant solar, wind, and geothermal energy potential. This is as a result of the political influence of the fossil fuel industry, which lobbies to maintain the status quo and prevent investment in clean energy solutions. According to a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency, Africa will generate just 5% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030, up from 3% today.

In addition to these systemic issues, corruption is a major contributor to the negative impact of politics on climate policies in Africa. Corruption frequently accompanies the exploitation of natural resources and manipulation of political systems by affluent individuals and corporations, impeding the implementation of effective climate policies.

In many African nations, corruption is so entrenched that it is difficult to address the problem and enact meaningful change, as those in positions of power are frequently unwilling to relinquish their control and influence. According to a report by Transparency International, more than 60% percent of African nations are ranked among the most corrupt in the world, undermining the ability to implement effective policies to address the effects of climate change.

The negative impact of politics on Africa's climate policies is not limited to domestic issues, but also affects the international community's ability to address the issue. African nations play a crucial role in addressing the global issue of climate change, but their efforts are frequently hampered by political interference and corruption. Africa is home to many of the world's most vulnerable populations, which will be disproportionately affected by the effects of climate change. This has global repercussions.

To summarise, the detrimental impact of politics on African climate policies is a major hurdle to addressing the problem and ensuring the continent's long-term existence. Despite this, initiatives such as investing in renewable energy, boosting openness and accountability, and actively engaging civil society can be taken to mitigate the damage. According to a study conducted by the International Energy Agency, switching to renewable energy in Africa may save $7.6 billion in health-care costs and create up to 900,000 employments by 2030. Only by addressing these issues together will Africa be able to take the necessary steps toward a more sustainable future free of the devastating effects of politics and corruption.