Climate Change and the Challenges of Social Development in Africa-Joshua S. Longe and Godson G. Omigie

Abstract: Climate change is akin to ecological epidemy. Its ravaging effect has undeniably threatened Africa's human existence, agricultural development, and food production. Today, in the once lush natural environment, the double growth rate of natural resources of plants and animals is fast receding from the past. Forests are becoming arid, rivers are drying, anthropogenic activities are relentlessly damaging nature, and the earth is warming. There seems to be an irreversible degradation with a concomitant decline in food production and an inverse increase in food commodity insecurity. Agricultural problems have been exacerbated because policies do not account for them. The failure to demonstrate justice and retribution has resulted in the commodification of natural resources to serve the interest of the bourgeoisie West. This poses a challenge to the survival and future of African society. In resolving the implication of climate change in Africa, there is a need for a radically strategic approach and involvement in implementing climatic and environmental policies through integrated and concerted efforts of government and development experts.

Keywords: climate change; development; natural resources; food production; ecosystem.