Gambians Demand Climate Action and Support from Wealthy Nations

Gambians are increasingly calling for climate action due to worsening weather patterns affecting agriculture and livelihoods. A significant portion of the population recognizes climate change’s detrimental effects and urges both local and international entities for urgent support. They advocate for investments in climate-resilient infrastructure and renewable energy as essential policy responses.

In the Gambia, citizens are increasingly calling for climate action due to severe changes in weather patterns affecting agriculture and livelihood. Reports indicate that nearly 38% of citizens feel that drought has intensified over the past decade, with 37% noting similar trends in flooding, and one-third observing worsened crop failures.

Many Gambians are making significant life adjustments in response to these climatic changes. Approximately 35% have altered the types of crops they cultivate or the foods they consume, while 30% have modified their outdoor working hours. Furthermore, 27% have reduced their livestock holdings or adjusted grazing practices, and 26% are using less water or switching water sources. Notably, rural and economically disadvantaged populations are more likely to report these adaptations compared to their urban or financially stable counterparts.

Awareness of climate change is notable, with about 68% of Gambians acknowledging its existence. Of this group, a striking 67% believe it has exacerbated living conditions in the Gambia. A majority attributes climate change to human activities, with 61% asserting human influence and 19% citing a combination of human activity and natural processes. A compelling 76% of respondents urge both the Gambian government and richer nations to take immediate action to combat climate crisis, with 83% advocating for the provision of resources to bolster local adaptive efforts.

In line with this movement, substantial backing exists for governmental initiatives aimed at tackling adverse environmental effects. Roughly 83% advocate for heightened governmental pressure on developed nations for support, while 82% endorse investments in climate-resilient infrastructure. Furthermore, 77% support advancements in wind and solar energy technologies.

Despite the significant agricultural contribution to the economy, concerns about climate change remain. Agriculture accounted for 24.8% of the Gambia’s GDP and employed around 46% of the labor force in 2023. However, climate-induced factors, such as rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns, threaten food security and livelihoods, with disastrous effects highlighted during the 2024 rainy season that induced flooding and displacement.

Afrobarometer’s recent survey elucidates the rising concerns amongst Gambians regarding climate change, revealing widespread acknowledgment of severe environmental impacts and a fervent call for policy adaptations to bolster resilience. This situation underscores the urgent need for robust climate action to safeguard the Gambian populace and economy.

The Gambian populace is acutely aware of the implications of climate change, with significant portions reporting adverse effects and demanding immediate action from both their government and wealthier nations. The identified adaptation strategies reflect a proactive approach to mitigate ongoing challenges posed by climate dynamics. Furthermore, the strong public support for investment in infrastructure and renewable energy serves as a clarion call for urgent and effective policy responses to safeguard the Gambia’s future.

Original Source: allafrica.com