Feeling the Heat in Eswatini - Climate Change Impacts a Kingdom

Published on 6 January 2025 at 09:45

                                                                                                                        Source: Women Unlimited

This is the first of three blog posts planned for this week on the climate change risk profiles of the three countries in which we are planning pilot projects. Today we discuss the climate risk profile of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland). On Wednesday we shall discuss Nigeria and then Cameroon on Friday

 

Eswatini, a small landlocked nation in Southern Africa, is facing significant challenges due to climate change. The country's reliance on rain-fed agriculture, coupled with its geographical location, makes it highly vulnerable to climate-related shocks.

Key Climate Risks:

  • Droughts: Eswatini experiences frequent and severe droughts, impacting agricultural production and food security.

  • Floods: Heavy rainfall can lead to devastating floods, damaging infrastructure and displacing communities.

  • Temperature Extremes: Rising temperatures and heatwaves pose threats to human health and agricultural productivity.

  • Water Scarcity: Climate change is exacerbating water scarcity, affecting both households and agricultural activities.

Impacts on the Economy:

  • Agriculture: The agricultural sector, which employs a significant portion of the population, is particularly vulnerable. Climate change threatens crop yields, livestock productivity, and food security.

  • Infrastructure: Roads, bridges, and other infrastructure are at risk of damage from extreme weather events.

  • Health: Rising temperatures and changes in rainfall patterns can increase the prevalence of diseases such as malaria and malnutrition.

Adaptation Efforts:

Eswatini is taking steps to adapt to climate change, including:

  • Developing climate-resilient agricultural practices: Promoting drought-resistant crops, improving irrigation systems, and strengthening early warning systems.

  • Investing in water resources management: Improving water storage and distribution infrastructure, and promoting water conservation measures.

  • Strengthening disaster risk management: Enhancing preparedness and response capacities to cope with extreme weather events.

Challenges and Opportunities:

While Eswatini is making progress in addressing climate change, significant challenges remain. These include limited financial resources, lack of technical expertise, and the need for stronger institutional coordination. However, there are also opportunities for sustainable development, such as investing in renewable energy and promoting climate-smart agriculture, including in the vital sugarcane sector.

 

By understanding the challenges and opportunities, Eswatini can effectively adapt to climate change and build a more resilient future.

 

Views and Comments are welcome through the comments box below!!

Happy New Year -

 

Emmanuel Ngungoh - Lead Writer for Developing Africa Blog

 

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