RISING AWARENESS OF THE EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE

Climate change is one of the most critical issues facing our planet today. Its importance lies in its far-reaching effects on the environment, human health, and global economies. Many of the impacts may come in the form of hotter temperatures, severe storms, increased drought, rising oceans, loss of species, insufficient food sources, poverty and displacement. Climate change scientists agree that significant societal, economic, and ecological damage would result if the global average temperature rose.

The regions most significantly affected by climate change include Africa, particularly Somalia. The area experiences frequent droughts and recurring flooding, leading to crop failures, loss of livestock, and long-term food insecurity. According to the USAID, climate crises in Somalia jeopardize socio-economic development by exacerbating water and food shortages, necessitating humanitarian aid, causing displacement, and degrading traditional livelihoods. The World Food Programme reports that the number of people at risk of famine in Somalia is ten times higher than it was just five years ago. This is due to the compounding effects of widespread conflict and climatic shocks, including droughts and floods.

Raising awareness of the effects of climate change is crucial for mitigating its impact. It is important to work on helping communities increase their climate resilience and mitigate the effects of climate-related shocks. The Hiil Institute for Governance acknowledges the need to build long-term resilience in the individual, household, and community through appropriate awareness and skill-building interventions to help people rebuild their lives and ensure their long-term survival.