Is the SA govt doing enough to combat climate change?

Climate change remains a pressing issue globally, with its impacts being felt in various parts of the world. In South Africa, the conversation around climate change and the action being taken to combat it have come under scrutiny. With nearly 50 political parties vying for power in the country, the question arises as to what extent climate change is being addressed in their agendas. Recent natural disasters, such as the storms in Mozambique and Malawi that resulted in the loss of over a thousand lives, underscore the urgency of addressing climate change. However, according to environmental researcher and climate change campaigner Ferrial Adam, the narrative around climate change in the country's political sphere seems to be more about lip service than concrete action. Adam highlighted that while many political parties mention climate change in their manifestos, the actual commitments and actions taken to address the issue are lacking. She pointed out the contradiction in some parties' stances, such as advocating for climate change awareness while simultaneously promoting the extraction of coal and gas, major contributors to pollution. This inconsistency reflects a gap between acknowledging the problem of climate change and implementing effective solutions. It is clear that a stronger, more holistic approach is needed to tackle the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change. One key aspect that Adam emphasized is the need for drastic commitments and actions from political parties to make a significant impact on reducing emissions and mitigating climate change effects. She criticized the lack of substantial measures taken by the government, citing examples like the responses to the Cape Town drought and cyclones, which she described as poorly executed. The focus on temporary solutions like desalination projects without considering long-term sustainability reflects a short-sighted approach to climate change adaptation. Furthermore, Adam highlighted the importance of education and awareness programs on climate change, particularly at the grassroots level. While organizations are working to educate communities on the effects of climate change, there is a need for more robust government support to address the issue effectively. Climate change is no longer a distant threat but a present reality affecting various aspects of people's lives, from water scarcity to agricultural challenges. The awareness of climate change impacts is growing among the population, requiring urgent action from policymakers to safeguard the country's future. In terms of international support, Adam noted that civil society organizations in South Africa have established connections with international partners to address climate change collectively. Organizations such as EarthLife Africa and Groundwork have international links that enable them to collaborate with global counterparts in advocating for climate action. While funding from foundations and international organizations plays a role in supporting local initiatives, there is a continued need for coordinated efforts at the global level to combat climate change effectively. Ultimately, the conversation around climate change in South Africa highlights the need for political parties to move beyond rhetoric and prioritize concrete actions to address the climate crisis. With the upcoming elections and the opportunity to shape policies, there is a call for stronger commitments, holistic strategies, and active engagement with stakeholders to drive meaningful change in combating climate change.