Who's Most Affected by the Climate Crisis?

I'm sure everyone is aware of the effects of climate change especially with the constant heat waves, rising sea levels, and loss of species around the world. However, you are most likely not the one who is feeling it the most. The children in Africa are not only going to be experiencing the physical changes in weather and biomes, but also in economics and politics when it comes to their rights. According to Dr. Joan Nyanyuki, the Executive Director of African Child Policy Forum (ACPF),

“Half of Africa’s population is under the age of 20. They are the ones who will suffer most from extreme weather events and climate-related disasters, from the long-term impacts of increased poverty, lack of investment and inadequate infrastructure. The climate crisis is a major child rights crisis in Africa and could reverse the progress made so far.”

According to the Notre Dam Global Adaptation Initiative, 35 out of the 45 (around 78%) countries most affected by climate change globally, are in Africa. According to Mrs. Graça Machel,

“They face more floods, droughts, food and water shortages, whilst at the same time, investment in essential children’s services could be diverted to pay for climate adaptation. African children and young people are bearing the brunt of climate change now, and will continue to do so in the coming decades.”

This is an extremely serious issue in the way of children's rights. There has been a lot of progress over the years when focusing on education and other important components to leading a fair life in Africa; this would be nothing but a setback to everyone. We need to come together to find solutions, and we need to do it fast.