The gradual and deliberate change of the climate occasioned by humans’ quest for a more pleasurable and modern way of life devoid of the sedentary and drudgery that characterized the type of life their ancestors lived has begun to take its toll on all corners of the globe.
Climate change is actually a change in the general atmospheric and weather conditions of a place that may bring about a deleterious effect on the environment. Over the years, particularly beginning from the 19th century , humans’ activities in the environment have been having a negative consequence on the climate and environment, such that experts have argued that there is in fact a positive correlation between harmful environmental practices and climate change. Human’s quest for the good life has led to massive deforestation, dredging and silting up of rivers, emission of industrial effluents which cause air pollution, mass manufacture of automobiles with internal combustion engines which emits harmful carbon monoxide amongst several other practices have grossly distorted the natural cycle, such that in many parts of the globe several natural hazards have become a regular occurrence.
In Africa, for instance one imminent threat is the geographical advancement of the Sahara desert leading to desertification in most parts of sub Saharan Africa. The irregularity of the rains in most parts of sub Saharan Africa is also a looming threat which has been linked to climate change. For instance in Northern Nigeria, the possibility that this year is going to be one of drought looks certain as the rains have refused to start as at march when it is due, forcing farmers to delay their planting season which will inadvertently affect harvests. This is also likely to be the situation in most parts of Africa, as agriculture is still “rain fed” in most parts of the continent. The intense heating and high rate of evaporation in most parts of the continent also calls for concern as it has resulted in the shrinking some say disappearance of the Lake Chad, a major inland drainage basin with serious consequence for the water cycle.
Unless a concerted effort is made by all stakeholders, on this topical issue of climate change especially in Africa, it is feared that in the not too distant future, the continent may face serious environmental challenges as a result of climate change.
