The Atlantic and Indian Oceans have sustained African coastal communities—providing fish, transport, and livelihoods for decades. But today, those same waters are turning into a threat. Pan-African Frequency interviewed Dr. Franck Ghomsi, postdoctoral researcher in satellite oceanography and a research officer at the National Institute of Cartography in Cameroon, about his recent study revealing that between 2023 and 2024 alone, sea levels along African coastlines contributed nearly one-fifth of the total rise seen since 1993. He warned that the margin of safety is shrinking rapidly and Africa should utilize scientific data to demand binding commitment on emission reduction, not just adaptation funding from Western nations, largely responsible for the crisis.
“The continent has contributed the least to the greenhouse gas emissions, causing this risk. And yet it's among the most exposed and the least equipped to respond [...] African nations have a powerful case to make, and science is their strongest tool right now [...] Ultimately, the path forward combined three elements. Scientific evidence to demand global accountability, regional cooperation to maximize limited resources, and local innovation to build resilience from the community level up. So, I think Africa does not need to wait for the world to act, but the world has an obligation to support Africa in facing the crisis it did not create," Dr. Ghomsi indicated.
Meanwhile, in Sierra Leone, a young innovator, Andrew Sahr Norma, is proving that African creativity can turn climate crisis into opportunity. His company, EcoIgnite, converts food waste into clean cooking gas using portable, affordable biodigesters. In this episode, he discussed his inspiration, journey, and impact in proffering solutions for climate problems.
“We are proud to have transformed over 120 tonnes of food waste and animal waste into over 7,000 cubic meters of green cooking gas so far since we started [...] the most accomplished part of my journey at EcoIgnite is knowing fully well that the biodigester is already solving problems for these houses and my community as a whole while bridging the food waste management challenge we are facing in Sierra Leone. And that is a success I will always be proud of,” Norma stated.
Tune in to listen to the full conversation with our guests on the Pan African Frequency podcast, brought to you by Sputnik Africa.
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