African Urban Heat Summit 2025

The African Urban Heat Summit took place on February 6, 2025, in Sierra Leone. This event marked step in addressing extreme heat challenges faced by African cities. Organised by Freetown and Climate Resilience for All (CRA), the summit introduced Freetown’s Heat Action Plan (HAP). This plan is the first comprehensive strategy of its kind on the continent.

Context of Urban Heat in Africa

African cities are increasingly vulnerable to extreme heat. Rapid urbanisation and climate change contribute to this phenomenon. Urban Heat Islands (UHI) exacerbate the situation, leading to higher temperatures in urban areas compared to their rural surroundings. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warns of severe economic impacts, predicting that the costs for overheated African cities may be double the global average.

Key Figures and Leadership

The summit featured influential leaders, including Sierra Leone’s Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr. Jalloh brought into light the urgent need to tackle extreme heat, which disrupts lives and threatens economic stability. Mayor Aki-Sawyerr emphasised the importance of the HAP as a commitment to community protection and resilience.

Heat Action Plan Initiatives

The HAP outlines specific strategies to combat extreme heat. These include the creation of cooling corridors and green spaces to mitigate heat exposure. Infrastructure improvements are also planned to adapt urban areas to rising temperatures. The plan prioritises vulnerable groups such as women, children, and the elderly, ensuring protective measures are in place.

Public Awareness and Community Involvement

Public awareness campaigns are a critical component of the HAP. These campaigns aim to educate citizens about heat-related risks and potential solutions. The involvement of community members is essential for the success of these initiatives. The summit telld the need for inclusive strategies that amplify the voices of those most affected by extreme heat.

Funding and Support

CRA announced a $120,000 grant to support the implementation of heat action measures. Three cities will receive up to $40,000 each for this purpose. This financial backing is crucial for enabling local governments to execute their plans effectively. The support from international partners marks the global commitment to addressing climate challenges in Africa.

Future Projections

By 2050, it is projected that over 70% of Africa’s population will reside in urban areas. The threat of deadly heatwaves could impact one-third of urban dwellers by the 2090s. Studies indicate that exposure to extreme heat in African cities could increase , with projections of between 86 and 217 billion person-days per year due to rising temperatures.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the impact of urbanisation on climate change in African cities.
2. Discuss the role of local governance in addressing climate resilience in urban areas.
3. Critically discuss the importance of community involvement in climate adaptation strategies.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the economic implications of extreme heat on urban populations in Africa.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the impact of urbanisation on climate change in African cities.

1. Rapid urbanisation leads to increased greenhouse gas emissions from transportation and industry.
2. Urban Heat Islands (UHI) effect causes higher temperatures in cities compared to rural areas.
3. Increased impervious surfaces reduce natural cooling and exacerbate heat retention.
4. Vulnerable populations face heightened risks due to inadequate infrastructure and services.
5. Climate change intensifies existing urban challenges, including water scarcity and health issues.

2. Discuss the role of local governance in addressing climate resilience in urban areas.

1. Local governments implement policies and action plans, like Freetown’s Heat Action Plan (HAP).
2. They facilitate community engagement and public awareness campaigns on climate issues.
3. Local authorities can mobilise resources and funding for climate adaptation initiatives.
4. They play important role in infrastructure development to enhance urban resilience.
5. Collaboration with NGOs and international partners is essential for effective climate strategies.

3. Critically discuss the importance of community involvement in climate adaptation strategies.

1. Community involvement ensures that adaptation strategies are tailored to local needs and contexts.
2. Engaging citizens encourages a sense of ownership and responsibility towards climate issues.
3. Public awareness campaigns educate communities about risks and adaptive measures.
4. Inclusion of vulnerable groups’ voices leads to more equitable and effective solutions.
5. Community-led initiatives can enhance resilience and promote sustainable practices.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the economic implications of extreme heat on urban populations in Africa.

1. Extreme heat disrupts livelihoods, particularly in agriculture and informal sectors, leading to income loss.
2. Healthcare systems become strained, increasing costs related to heat-related illnesses.
3. Urban heat can deter investment and reduce productivity in affected areas.
4. Record-breaking temperatures can lead to infrastructure damage, requiring costly repairs.
5. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warns of economic costs potentially double the global average for African cities.