Agriculture and Environmental Studies
Climate change impact on the health of African women and adaptation strategies
Climate change is now compromising the sustainability of human development on the planet because it
threatens human health and the ecological support systems on which life depends. Health impact of
climate change is grouped into direct and indirect effects depending on whether they occur predominantly
via the impact of climate variables upon human biology or are mediated by climate-induced changes on
biological and biogeochemical systems. Direct impacts stem from extreme events such as heat waves,
floods, droughts, windstorms and wildfires. Indirect effects of climate change on health may arise from the
disruption of natural systems, causing infectious diseases, malnutrition, food and water-borne illnesses
and increased air pollution. These effects of climate change are more and expected to be experienced more
in Africa. African women whether as resident or migrants are most vulnerable group because of their social
role as managers of household resources (water, fuel, food and so on) and care givers. In addition, because
of their biological and social disposition, African women are confronted with greater risk of these emerging
health challenges due to climate change. This paper therefore discusses the climate change impact on the
health of African women and the need for this most vulnerable group, to adapt strategically to these
emerging health challenges due to climate change.
No Related Publications available