The exacerbated effects of climate-induced Loss and Damage and adaptation capacity: A case study of Liberia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Sudan, and Uganda

This study examines the disproportionate impacts of climate change-induced loss and damage (L&D) on Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), a region that contributes less than 4% to global carbon emissions yet faces some of the most severe consequences of extreme weather events. Framed within a climate justice perspective, the report highlights how floods, tropical cyclones, heatwaves, and droughts have led to widespread devastation, including biodiversity loss, displacement, destruction of infrastructure, and threats to food and water security. The study underscores the urgency of addressing these challenges, given that global emissions trends indicate a trajectory towards a 4°C to 5°C warmer world by 2100, with Africa experiencing warming at a faster rate than the global average.

Through a systematic literature review and case studies from Liberia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Sudan, and Uganda, the research provides a detailed examination of the exacerbated effects of climate-induced L&D and explores the adaptation capacities of SSA countries, evaluating how they are responding to climate risks through community-led initiatives, policy interventions, and resilience-building strategies. It finds that weak governance structures, limited financial investment, and socio-economic inequalities hinder effective adaptation, further exacerbating vulnerabilities. The report also draws attention to the intersection of climate change with public health, highlighting how extreme heat, drought, and food insecurity increase the prevalence of diseases, malnutrition, and mortality, particularly among young people, pregnant women, and the elderly.