The results of an Afrobarometer survey, published on Earth Day, reveal that "most Africans who are aware of climate change say it is worsening their lives."
Conducted in 28 African countries, the new Afrobarometer survey shows that African populations are urging their governments and wealthy nations to take the lead in reducing their carbon footprint impacts.
"Nearly six in 10 citizens (58%) report having heard of climate change," with particularly high awareness in Mauritius (83%), Gabon (79%), and Malawi (77%), but much lower awareness in Nigeria (27%) and Tunisia (37%), highlights the African news agency.
Among those who are aware of the phenomenon, "about two-thirds (65%) believe that the main cause of climate change is human activity," and "eight in 10 (80%) think that climate change is making life worse in their country," with nearly half (49%) believing it is "much worse."
Regarding the responsibility for tackling climate change, "nearly four in 10 (38%) believe it is the responsibility of their country's government," while a quarter of respondents "look to wealthy or developed countries." A notable share (19%) believes this task belongs to ordinary citizens.
To address environmental degradation, "large majorities support investments in climate-resilient infrastructure (82%)," as well as "increased pressure on wealthy countries to provide more climate aid (77%)." A significant proportion (68%) also supports "increased funding for wind and solar energy to produce electricity, even if it raises the price."
Afrobarometer, which launched its tenth round of surveys in January 2024, is an independent pan-African network specializing in surveys on democracy, governance, and quality of life. Data is collected through face-to-face interviews in the respondent's preferred language, with margins of error of /- 2 to /- 3 percentage points.