somalia
Somalia's climate crisis is worsening long-standing challenges
Despite being one of the world's poorest and most conflict-ridden nations, Somalia's top climate advisor remains hopeful for the country's future despite the impacts of climate change.
In short:
- Climate change is intensifying Somalia’s droughts and floods, worsening resource scarcity and fueling local conflicts.
- Around 4 million people, displaced by conflict and climate crises, now live in makeshift refugee camps with little international aid.
- Somalia is investing in renewable energy, with local businesses and communities taking steps to adapt to climate challenges.
Key quote:
“There is no respect if you don’t have a gun. The herders who lead their animals into the farm stay back when they see my weapon.”
— Sheik Don Ismail, Somali farmer.
Why this matters:
Somalia’s escalating climate challenges are pushing its population into deeper conflict and poverty, threatening millions with displacement, hunger, and violence. Addressing these issues requires urgent international support.
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Extreme weather is worsening Africa's cholera crisis
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Sebabatso Mosamo, Farai Mutsaka, and Gerald Imray report for The Associated Press.
In short:
- Since late 2021, more than 6,000 people have died and nearly 350,000 have been infected with cholera in southern and East Africa.
- Extreme weather, including cyclones, floods, and droughts, has increased the incidence of cholera by contaminating water sources.
- A global shortage of cholera vaccines has exacerbated the crisis, particularly in poorer countries that are most affected.
Key quote:
"The outbreaks are getting much larger because the extreme climate events are getting much more common."
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Why this matters:
Floods not only spread cholera but also destroy crops, leading to food insecurity and malnutrition, which weakens immune systems and makes populations more vulnerable to diseases. Conversely, droughts deplete water sources, pushing people to use contaminated water for drinking and cooking.
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Dwindling fish stocks caused by the climate crisis are leading to an increase in pirate attacks, according to a new study looking at two piracy hotspots over the past two decades.
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