Disaster induced displacement and durable solutions in Africa

Abstract

AbstractClimate change represents a significant challenge to the sustainability of the global economy. Many African countries have suffered the repercussions of environmental and climate deterioration, most notably internal displacement. This article sought to examine the impact of climate change within the context of internal displacement in Africa and to preview and describe the trends of internally displaced people in Africa. The study used a mixed methods approach. Qualitative data was obtained from online repositories, and it was analyzed using content analysis. Quantitative data was obtained from World Bank portal and it was analysed using descriptive statistics. Research findings have shown that Africa is plagued by a high number of internally displaced people. It was also established that climate change leads to income inequality, the exposure of people to poverty, and the destruction of infrastructure. These adverse effects affect the capacity of African economies to attain selected Sustainable Development Goals. In terms of policy recommendations, it was suggested that there is a need to strengthen the regional and continental bodies, invest in climate change adaptation measures, broaden the definition of refugees to include climate refugees, and promote robust research and capacity building.