NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 23 – Citizens across 22 African countries are calling on their governments to demand more support from rich and developed nations to address the devastating impacts of climate change, according to a new Afro barometer survey.
The findings highlight growing public concern over worsening droughts and crop failures across the continent, as well as strong support for investment in climate-resilient infrastructure.
“More than three-quarters (77%) of Africans say their governments should put more pressure on rich and developed countries to provide resources to help citizens who are affected by climate change or changes in weather conditions,” read the barometer in part.
Six in 10 Africans surveyed report being aware of climate change and a striking 81% of those aware say it is worsening life in their communities.
Countries like Mauritius (95%), Zimbabwe (93%), and Zambia (93%) report the highest levels of negative impact.
The majority of respondents say that climate-related challenges, including droughts (59%) and crop failures (59%), have become more severe over the past decade.
However, opinions on the severity of floods, landslides, and soil erosion vary across the continent.
When asked who should bear primary responsibility for addressing climate change, 37% of respondents pointed to their own governments, followed by wealthy countries (26%) and ordinary citizens (18%).
Despite this, there is demand for collective action, with more than three-quarters (77%) urging their governments to press rich nations for resources to support affected citizens.
Beyond seeking external aid, 82% of Africans back government investment in climate-resilient infrastructure, such as systems to withstand extreme floods and droughts.
According to the report, this reflects a growing recognition of the need for long-term solutions to mitigate the impact of climate change on vulnerable populations.
