Climate change is fuelling African conflict – governments are developing a shared response

Climate change is making life tougher.

Across Africa, failed harvests, shrinking water supplies and more extreme weather are leaving millions of people hungry and forcing many from their homes.

When communities compete for land and water, the risk of conflict can grow.

African governments are now developing a Common African Position on Climate, Peace and Security to tackle these problems together.

But will it lead to real change on the ground? Gracsious Maviza and Katongo Seyuba research climate risks and security .

They explain how climate change is affecting peace and security across the continent, what the new framework proposes, and what governments must do to make it work.

What key peace and security problems do African countries face today? Many African countries face peace and security problems that go far beyond war.

These include political instability, violent extremist groups, organised crime and armed militias.

What makes unstable countries worse is weak governments, corruption and poor quality public services.

Read more: Armed conflict and climate change: how these two threats play out in Africa These problems often affect several neighbouring countries at once rather than staying within one country’s borders.

At the same time, Africa’s population is growing rapidly and more people are moving to cities.

However, many countries are struggling to create enough jobs and economic opportunities, especially for young people.

Frustration over poor governance has fuelled protests and unrest, and in some countries has helped create the conditions for the return of military coups since 2020.

How does climate change make these problems worse? Climate change is rarely a direct cause of conflict.