As part of a bold initiative to harness artificial intelligence (AI) to fight climate change and preserve nature, the Bezos Earth Fund has announced the launch of a $100 million multi-year Grand Challenge. This announcement comes at a crucial time when environmental challenges demand innovative and rapid solutions to protect the planet and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
Toute l'actu sur la protection de l'environnement
ZIMBABWE: the government declares a state of national disaster in the face of drought
Zimbabwe declared a state of national disaster on Wednesday 3 April 2024 due to the devastating drought that has hit large parts of southern Africa. President Emmerson Mnangagwa issued an urgent appeal for humanitarian aid, pointing out that more than 80% of the country is experiencing below-normal rainfall, leaving millions in need of food assistance.
8 March: African women’s challenges and priorities in the face of climate change
To mark the 49th International Women’s Rights Day on 8 March 2024, Afrik21 highlights the vital role of African women in the fight against climate change. The devastating effects of climate change on the African continent are amplifying already existing gender disparities, highlighting the urgent need for concerted action to strengthen women’s resilience.
SIERRA LEONE: a $26.8 million investment to strengthen climate resilience
Sierra Leone’s coastal communities, faced with rising sea levels and increasingly violent storms, are receiving crucial support with the announcement on 6 March 2024 of a $26.8 million initiative. The Green Climate Fund (GCF), in collaboration with the government of Sierra Leone and the non-governmental organisation (NGO) Save the Children, is launching an ambitious project to build resilience to the devastating effects of climate change along the coast of this West African country.
AFRICA: climate change will plunge 200 million people into famine
An alarming new study highlights the devastating consequences of climate change on the African continent. Published on 21 February 2024 by the Centre for Global Development (CDM), the study reveals that more than 200 million people in Africa could be plunged into severe famine after 2050 if adequate adaptation measures are not put in place now.
ALGERIA: natural gas presented as the key to energy transition in Algiers
The 7th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) is being held from 29 February to 2 March 2024 in the Algerian capital, Algiers. Billed as the « Summit of Major Challenges », it will focus on the role of natural gas in the transition to renewable energies.
GHANA: climate change amplifies air pollution in Accra
The harmattan season is intensifying in Ghana, with a dangerous increase in fine particles in the air. The government is sounding the alarm, advising the public to reduce outdoor activities to a strict minimum.
MADAGASCAR: among the countries considered « at high risk » of El Niño impacts
The island of Madagascar, off the southeast coast of Africa, is set to experience increased drought in 2024. According to the United Nations, the island is one of 35 countries worldwide considered to be « at high risk » from the impacts of the El Niño phenomenon.
Italy-Africa Summit: Rome backs « Green Cities for Africa » initiative
At the Italy-Africa summit in Rome on January 29, 2024, the Italian government announced a 5.5 billion euro investment plan to support development in Africa. This support will include renewable energies, energy efficiency projects, water and sanitation. This will be done in line with the provisions of the joint « Green Cities for Africa » project.
SAHEL: why is Burkina Faso joining the Helsinki Water Convention?
On January 19, 2024, Burkina Faso officially confirmed its intention to join the Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes, more commonly known as the Water Convention. This forthcoming accession will enable the West African country to improve the management of its shared water resources, against a backdrop of increasing climate change.