GLOBAL WARMING'S IMPACT ON ESWATINI

Climate change, primarily driven by human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation, has led to rising global temperatures, extreme weather and environmental instability. While it is a global crisis, its effects vary by region. In Eswatini, global warming poses significant threats to the environment, economy and livelihoods. This article explores how climate change affects Eswatini, the country’s responses and the role of young people in climate action.

Impact of global warming on Eswatini

Eswatini is highly vulnerable to climate change due to its reliance on natural resources, agriculture and water availability. Key challenges include:

Unpredictable rainfall and water scarcity

Erratic rainfall patterns lead to frequent droughts and unexpected storms. These disruptions severely impact agriculture, a crucial sector for employment and food security. Insufficient rainfall results in crop failures, food shortages and water scarcity. The severe 2015/16 drought, for example, significantly affected the Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation, causing financial losses and job cuts.

Rising temperatures and extreme weather

Temperatures in Eswatini are steadily increasing, leading to more frequent heatwaves and wildfires, especially in dry grasslands and forests. Extreme heat also threatens public health, causing dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Crop yields, particularly maize, are declining, worsening food insecurity. Additionally, rising temperatures create favourable conditions for disease vectors such as Anopheles mosquitoes, which spread malaria.

Ecosystem disruptions and biodiversity loss

Eswatini’s diverse ecosystems, including the Lubombo Biosphere Reserve, are under threat from climate change. Shifts in temperature and rainfall encourage invasive species, which outcompete native flora and fauna, resulting in biodiversity loss. Such ecological imbalances disrupt food chains and endanger local wildlife.

Economic consequences

Eswatini’s economy, which heavily depends on agriculture and tourism, is highly susceptible to climate change. Declining agricultural productivity threatens food security and farmer incomes, while ecosystem disruptions reduce the country’s appeal as a wildlife tourism destination. Climate-related disasters also increase government spending on infrastructure repairs and disaster relief, straining national resources.

Eswatini’s response to global warming

Despite limited resources, Eswatini is addressing climate change through mitigation (reducing greenhouse gas emissions) and adaptation (adjusting to climate impacts). Key efforts include:

l     National Climate Change Policy (NCCP): The NCCP guides Eswatini’s response to climate challenges, prioritising sustainable development, climate adaptation and emissions reduction. The policy focuses on resilience-building in agriculture, water management and energy production.

l     Climate-resilient agriculture: To ensure food security, government promotes drought-resistant crops and climate-smart agricultural practices, such as water conservation and soil management. Farmers are encouraged to adopt sustainable techniques that help mitigate climate risks.

l     Expansion of renewable energy: Eswatini is investing in renewable energy sources like solar and hydropower to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Collaboration with international partners is enhancing renewable energy capacity, promoting energy security and reducing carbon emissions.

l     International climate commitments: As a signatory to the Paris Agreement, Eswatini works with global organisations like the UNFCCC to access funding and technical support for climate initiatives. However, political shifts—such as the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement under President Trump—raise concerns about international climate cooperation.

The role of youth in climate action

Young people in Eswatini have a vital role in combating climate change. Their involvement can accelerate progress toward a sustainable future.

1.     Raising awareness and advocacy: Youth-led organisations are at the forefront of climate education. Through awareness campaigns and social media, young activists advocate for environmental conservation and stronger climate policies. Organisations like Earth Allies, Hlumisa, Insha Nemvelo and the Eswatini Man and Biosphere Youth Network actively engage in climate action.

2.     Green entrepreneurship and innovation: Young entrepreneurs are developing eco-friendly solutions to climate challenges. Innovations in sustainable farming, renewable energy businesses and recycling initiatives contribute to a lower carbon footprint while creating economic opportunities.

3.     Education and community outreach: Through workshops, school programmes and digital campaigns, young people promote environmental conservation, waste reduction and energy efficiency. Educating communities ensures broader participation in climate action at local and national levels.

4.     Policy engagement and leadership: Youth participation in policymaking can shape Eswatini’s climate strategies. By engaging with decision-makers and participating in international climate forums, young people can push for stricter environmental regulations and greater investments in renewable energy. However, they must be given genuine opportunities to contribute, rather than serving as symbolic figures in international discussions.

For further engagement, youth are encouraged to join the Earth Allies movement by subscribing to their YouTube channel and following their Facebook page.

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