Amid growing global concern over climate change, and as the impacts of climate-related hazards continue to test systems across the continent, Africa has shown time and again that it can rise to meet complex challenges.
From the devastating floods in Nigeria to the relentless cyclones in Mozambique, the urgency for Africa to overhaul its disaster management strategies has never been more pressing. However, these challenges also present a chance to reimagine disaster management in ways that are home-grown, forward-looking and rooted in Africa’s unique strengths.
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Globally, the past five decades have witnessed a staggering rise in climate-related disasters. According to the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), from 1970 to 2021, weather, climate and water-related hazards accounted for more than 11,000 disasters, resulting in over two million deaths and economic losses exceeding $4.3 trillion. Notably, developing countries bore the brunt—accounting for 91 per cent of the deaths and 60 per cent of the economic losses. The WMO emphasises that improved early warning systems have significantly reduced mortality rates, highlighting their crucial role in disaster risk reduction.
Africa, despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, faces a disproportionate share of climate-related disasters. Limited infrastructure, rapid urbanisation and dependence on climate-sensitive sectors like agriculture amplify its vulnerability. Between 2015 and 2018 alone, the continent experienced over 700 disaster events, affecting upwards of 80 million people and resulting in more than 66,000 deaths.
Nigeria’s Recurrent Flooding Crisis
Nigeria’s experience with flooding epitomises the challenges many African nations face. In 2022, the country endured one of its worst flood disasters in a decade. Torrential rainfall, compounded by the release of water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam, displaced over 1.4 million people, destroyed more than 200,000 homes, and claimed at least 612 lives. Approximately 110,000 hectares of farmland were devastated, posing a significant threat to food security and livelihoods.
Then, in September 2024, Borno State was struck by another catastrophic flood following the collapse of the Alau Dam. The disaster severely impacted Maiduguri and Jere Local Government Areas, with the National Emergency Management Agency reporting that more than 70 per cent of Maiduguri residents were displaced. At least 150 people died. The United Nations refugee agency described it as the worst flooding to hit the city in three decades, affecting over one million people.
These recurring crises expose systemic vulnerabilities—poor urban planning, inadequate drainage systems and the absence of functional early warning mechanisms. The lack of coordination between neighbouring countries on dam water releases further compounds the issue, highlighting the pressing need for regional cooperation in disaster management.
Mozambique’s Battle with Cyclones
Mozambique’s location along the Indian Ocean renders it particularly susceptible to cyclones. In March 2019, Cyclone Idai struck with devastating force, killing over 1,000 people and affecting more than two million across Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi. It caused extensive flooding, destroyed vital infrastructure and triggered a large-scale humanitarian emergency.
More recently, in 2023, Cyclone Freddy battered Mozambique, again resulting in widespread damage and loss of life. These recurring events underscore the country’s exposure and the urgent need for robust disaster preparedness and response strategies. While Mozambique has made notable strides in improving its early warning systems, persistent challenges remain, including limited resources, inadequate infrastructure and the need for greater community engagement in disaster risk reduction.
The Imperative for Localised Data and Early Warning Systems
Effective disaster management depends on access to accurate, localised data and the deployment of comprehensive early warning systems. In Africa, the lack of reliable data continues to hinder timely prediction and response. Many countries rely on outdated or incomplete information, impeding their ability to implement targeted interventions.
Early warning systems are a cornerstone of disaster risk reduction. They provide timely alerts that allow communities to prepare for hazards, thereby reducing loss of life and property. However, only a fraction of Africa’s population is currently covered by such systems. The WMO notes that while these mechanisms have dramatically reduced global disaster-related deaths, their reach across Africa remains insufficient.
Community-Based Initiatives: The Case of Malawi
Malawi’s efforts to establish Community-Based Flood Early Warning Systems (CBFEWS) offer valuable insights into grassroots disaster preparedness. These systems utilise Earth observation and satellite technologies to provide flood alerts up to 15 days in advance, enhancing community readiness. Warnings are relayed through various channels, including sirens, SMS and emails to local authorities and humanitarian agencies.
Yet, challenges persist. A study assessing CBFEWS in Malawi revealed issues such as limited technical expertise among community members, insufficient funding and weak coordination between national and local systems. The lack of a direct link between national meteorological services and community-level mechanisms hampers the timely flow of warnings. Addressing these gaps requires ongoing investment in capacity building, infrastructure and the integration of grassroots systems into national frameworks.
Regional and Continental Efforts
Recognising the need for collective action, regional bodies like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have begun implementing multi-hazard early warning systems. In 2023, ECOWAS, in collaboration with the African Union Commission and other partners, launched a Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (MHEWS) to enhance disaster risk reduction across the region. The initiative facilitates data sharing, hazard monitoring and the dissemination of alerts to enable prompt response.
At the continental level, the African Union has endorsed the Africa Multi-Hazard Early Warning and Early Action System (AMHEWAS). Launched in 2022, AMHEWAS provides a strategic framework for integrating early warning and action systems across Africa. It advocates a holistic approach by combining hazard monitoring for natural disasters, conflict and health crises.
Charting a Resilient Path Forward
Africa’s growing exposure to climate-related disasters necessitates a fundamental shift in disaster management. The continent must prioritise the development of localised data systems, invest in wide-reaching early warning mechanisms and engage communities in preparedness efforts. Regional and continental collaborations, such as those led by ECOWAS and the African Union, are crucial in constructing a cohesive and resilient disaster response framework.
By embracing a strategy that blends technology, community participation and policy alignment, Africa can bolster its resilience to natural disasters. The way forward demands sustained commitment, investment and cooperation—ensuring the continent is not only prepared for future calamities but is equipped to mitigate their impacts effectively.
