Turning Veggies into Gourmet Delights: How Climate Change is Elevating Our Plates – A Greenpeace Africa Perspective

When fresh fruits and veggies become expensive luxuries, it’s a sign the climate crisis is affecting us all. Let’s chat about this reality.

Recently, I visited a market in Odza, Yaoundé. I wanted to buy some vegetables. The vendor said, “The bunch is 500 FCFA, about one euro.” My reaction was pure shock. The vendor noticed and explained, “Everything is costly these days! The weather is unpredictable, and farmers are struggling. The climate has really hurt this season’s harvests.”

Just the next day, I was searching for cucumbers. The vendor quoted me 1,000 FCFA for a bunch—almost two euros for four average cucumbers. It’s baffling, especially since this is the rainy season, when cucumbers should be plentiful!

This situation reflects a harsh truth for many in Cameroon. According to a report from May 2023 by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, about three million people, or 11% of the population, are facing acute food insecurity. Climate change is a big factor here.

Last year, Greenpeace Africa warned that too much rain could threaten food security in Cameroon. They urged leaders to take immediate action to avoid even higher living costs in the future.

So, what’s the real problem?

I’ve been aware of climate issues for some time, but experiencing them firsthand hits hard. Climate change isn’t a distant problem; it’s affecting our foods and lives right now. As weather patterns shift, our whole way of living is at risk.

Gatherings like COP meetings need to change from glorified photo ops into serious platforms where nations truly commit to real change. The urgency is clear; each moment wasted pulls us deeper into chaos. This crisis impacts not just us today but future generations. It’s time to take real action—like holding polluters accountable and funding sustainable practices.

The planet shouldn’t be exploited endlessly. Nature is a treasure we all share, and it’s crucial we protect it before it’s too late.

Additional insights show that recent studies indicate that food prices worldwide have surged by 30% since last year, heavily influenced by climate-related factors. This trend isn’t just local; it’s a global issue affecting everyone.

Let’s remember that tackling climate change starts at the grassroots level with our daily choices and understanding where our food comes from. In doing so, we can gradually create a ripple effect that leads to meaningful change.

Climate change is not waiting. Neither should we.

If you want to know more about the impact of climate change on food security, check out this [Greenpeace Report](https://www.greenpeace.org/africa/en/publications/).

Best wishes,

Luchelle Feukeng, Communication and Storytelling Manager at Greenpeace Africa

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