How climate change is threatening food security & peace in the Horn of Africa

The impact of climate change in Africa, particularly in Ethiopia and Somalia, has been severe in recent years. A study from the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative identified these countries as among the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change in East Africa. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has been on the ground witnessing the devastating consequences of this crisis. The last decade was recorded as the warmest on record, leading to deadly extremes in weather conditions. In Ethiopia, hundreds of thousands of people were displaced by drought and violence, highlighting the interconnectedness of climate change and conflict. The change in livelihood patterns driven by climate change often triggers conflicts, making essential resources scarcer and more contested. This has been particularly visible in areas like Somalia and southern Ethiopia, where pastoralist communities have clashed with agricultural communities over dwindling resources. This interplay between climate change and conflict is a relatively new challenge that demands urgent attention and innovative solutions. To address these issues, creating climate resilience in the region is crucial. Better early warning systems, improved data gathering, and forecasting capabilities are essential to anticipate and mitigate the combined impact of climate change and conflict on local communities. The ICRC has initiated projects like index-based livestock insurance, which leverages scientific data and climate forecasts to provide support to those affected by drought. This innovative approach aims to help people maintain their livelihoods even in the face of climate-related disruptions. Developing adaptability, agility, and capacity to change mindsets among communities are key to creating sustainable solutions. Traditional livelihoods that have sustained communities for centuries may need to be adapted to meet the challenges posed by climate change. It is imperative to proactively address the consequences of the combined effect of climate change and conflict to effectively support communities in need. The economies of countries in the Horn of Africa are already fragile and struggling to provide for their populations. The devastating impact of climate change and conflict pushes them further into crisis mode, diverting resources from development towards emergency response efforts. Anticipation and early intervention are critical in mitigating the effects of these disasters and supporting vulnerable populations. As climate-related extremes become more frequent, collaboration between humanitarian agencies, states, and development organizations is essential to build resilience and protect the livelihoods of those most affected by this crisis.