A new Afrobarometer survey spanning 28 African countries has revealed that a majority of Africans who are aware of climate change believe it is making life significantly worse in their countries. The findings highlight a growing demand for governments and developed nations to lead urgent efforts in tackling the devastating impacts of climate change.
The survey found that nearly six in 10 Africans (58%) are aware of climate change, although awareness varies widely across countries. Mauritius (83%), Gabon (79%), Malawi (77%), and Cabo Verde (76%) recorded the highest awareness levels, while fewer than four in 10 citizens reported the same in Tanzania (38%), Tunisia (37%), and Nigeria (27%).
Among those who are aware of climate change, a staggering 80% say it is negatively affecting life in their countries — including nearly half (49%) who believe it is making life much worse. In terms of causation, about two-thirds (65%) attribute climate change to human activity, while 20% believe it is driven by natural processes, and 11% cite both.
When it comes to assigning responsibility, opinion is split. While 46% believe people, businesses, and governments in other parts of the world are most responsible for causing climate change, 44% point the finger at local actors within their own countries.
Yet, when asked who should take the lead in addressing climate change, nearly four in 10 respondents (38%) said their own governments should bear primary responsibility. A quarter (25%) pointed to rich or developed countries, with fewer suggesting that ordinary citizens (19%) or businesses and industries (10%) should lead the charge.
The study also gauged support for various policy interventions to mitigate the effects of climate change and foster resilience. A large majority of respondents endorsed:
- Investment in climate-resilient infrastructure (82%)
- Greater pressure on wealthy countries to increase climate aid (77%)
- More funding for solar and wind energy, even if it raises electricity prices (68%)
Support was more divided on other measures such as banning tree cutting for firewood or charcoal (51%), promoting electric taxis and buses (45%), and mandating the use of cleaner-burning cookstoves (45%).
The findings come amid growing calls for African voices to shape global climate policy, particularly as the continent continues to bear the brunt of climate shocks despite contributing minimally to global emissions.
The Afrobarometer survey underscores the urgency of climate action rooted in both domestic policy and international support, especially as public pressure mounts for leaders to confront a crisis that is already deepening inequality and threatening livelihoods across Africa.
