Africa is losing billions of dollars every year because the continent is not receiving enough money to protect itself from climate change, a new analysis shows.
The report, released by Mwananchi Communications Ltd data analyst Halili Letea, explains that African countries are forced to deal with extreme heat, floods, droughts, and rising sea levels—yet the financial support promised by wealthy nations remains far below what is needed.
According to climate experts, Africa contributes less than 4 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, but it is one of the regions most affected by climate disasters. Farmers are losing crops, hospitals are overwhelmed by climate-linked diseases, and governments are spending huge amounts on emergency response instead of long-term planning.
Despite international pledges, climate financing to Africa is still less than half of what was promised under global climate agreements. The shortfall makes it difficult for countries to build stronger infrastructure, improve early-warning systems, and support vulnerable communities.
Letea’s report highlights that many of the losses—including destroyed homes, damaged roads, and rising food prices—could have been avoided if proper funding and preparation had been in place.
Health experts warn that the lack of climate funding is also becoming a major health concern. Heat-related illnesses, malnutrition, and the spread of diseases after floods are increasing across several African regions. They say investments in climate-resilient health systems are urgently needed.
The report comes as African leaders continue to call on richer nations to honour their climate finance commitments and deliver more money for both adaptation and loss-and-damage support. Without this, the continent will continue to suffer economic losses that worsen poverty and inequality.
