Skip to main content

Climate Change Hits Gambia's Economy



 Climate Change Hits Gambia's Economy 


The Gambia, one of Africa's smallest nations, is facing the effects of climate change, not just on environment, but also on its economy. From irregular rainfall to damaged roads, the changing climate undermines the economic stability of the country.


The Gambia's economy heavily relies on agriculture. Climate change has caused irregular rainfall, drought, and floods, which has damaged crops, reduced yields, and threatened food security. Once-fertile lands are turning dry and cracked, increasing difficulty in sustaining crops. "The rain used to come on time. Now we don't know when it will fall or how long it will last", said Alhagie Jallow, a farmer in the Central River Region.

Dry land due to drought

Tourism, one of The Gambia's main economic pillars, is also under threat. Coastal erosion and environmental degradation, which affects beaches and tourist sites is reducing the appeal for international tourists and impacting tourism revenue.

Eroded Beach at Senegambia
Meanwhile, climate-induced floods and storms have damaged major infrastructure including roads and buildings. The cost of repairs is rising, placing a burden on national development plans.


Climate vulnerability has discouraged foreign investors due to perceived risks like climate disasters, resulting in reduced foreign investments. This slows jobs creation, limits opportunities for young people, and limit economic growth opportunities.


Bad roads in Madiana

To respond to these challenges, the government is forced to spend more on disaster relief and climate adaptation, cutting into the budget meant for economic growth. Without urgent action, climate change may continue to chip away at The Gambia's economy.



Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

How We Can Help Stop Climate Change

By: GIBRIL WALLY Climate change can feel overwhelming, but the solutions are already within reach. What we need now is action — especially from governments and businesses. Here are the most impactful ways we can collectively tackle the climate crisis: Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it's happening right now, and it's affecting the way we live, grow food, and stay healthy. From rising temperatures to extreme weather, the planet is sounding the alarm. But while the challenge is global, the solution starts with something simple and local: keeping our environment clean. Litter, pollution, and irresponsible waste management aren’t just unsightly—they’re dangerous. When we dump garbage in rivers, burn plastic, or cut down trees without replanting, we add harmful gases like carbon dioxide and methane into the air. These greenhouse gases trap heat, causing global temperatures to rise—a process known as global warming. This warming leads to more droughts, floods, meltin...
Post a Comment
Read more
WELCOME TO THE CLIMATE CHRONICLES At The Climate Chronicles, we explore how climate change is reshaping our lives, from flooded schools to failing crops. This blog is your go-to space for real stories, simple breakdowns, and bold conversations about our planet's most urgent crisis. Whether you're new to climate issues or a passionate advocate, there's something for you. It's time to understand the problem, raise our voices, and take bold actions together.
Post a Comment
Read more

A Growing Disaster Threat for The Gambia

 By: ROHEY NGUM A Growing Disaster Threat for The Gambia Poor environmental keeping can contribute to climate change, pollution, and poor land use intensify global warming and increase disaster risks."  The Gambia is facing escalating threats from climate change, as rising sea levels and extreme weather events increase the risk of disasters nationwide. The frequency and intensity of these disasters have grown significantly, with the Banjul flood serving as a stark example of the devastating consequences. Climate-related challenges such as rising sea levels, erratic rainfall, and extreme weather have heightened the country’s vulnerability to flooding, drought, and coastal erosion. These impacts not only endanger lives and livelihoods but also jeopardize the nation’s development efforts.
Post a Comment
Read more