A recent study highlights significant gaps in climate adaptation research in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite many studies on the topic, only about 370 out of nearly 36,000 evaluated were deemed suitable for impact evaluation, according to the International Centre for Evaluation and Development (ICED).
Most research has focused mainly on crop production. This is worrying because other important sectors like fisheries and aquaculture, which are lifelines for many coastal and lakeside communities, are largely overlooked. These sectors provide essential food and income, yet there’s little evidence to show if current adaptation strategies actually help improve living conditions.
The study emphasizes that existing research often examines why households adopt certain practices rather than whether those practices actually benefit food security or income. As ICED researchers noted, “Evidence exists, but it is not always accessible in ways that inform action.”
To help address this, Evidence and Gap Maps (EGMs) were introduced in the study. These maps organize research into clear, structured formats that reveal what has been studied and where gaps remain. This resource can assist governments and organizations in making better policy decisions and resource allocations.
Interestingly, while African researchers from countries like Ethiopia, South Africa, Ghana, and Kenya contributed significantly to the study, researchers from the U.S. and Europe also played a major role. This raises questions about whose priorities shape climate adaptation research.
The report comes amid a pressing global challenge—achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Only 18% of these targets are on track for 2030. Areas like energy, health, and education show progress, while climate action and the blue economy struggle to keep pace.
The impacts of climate change are severe in Africa, with over 500,000 climate-related deaths reported annually. This underscores the urgent need for effective adaptation strategies.
Experts suggest that tools like EGMs can guide governments and funding bodies in pinpointing areas for investment, especially in less studied sectors. There’s also a strong call for more investment in African-led research to improve policymaking and implementation as climate risks grow.
For further insights into climate adaptation strategies and their effectiveness, you can explore the Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025 for more context and data.
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Climate AdaptationKenya Food Security, Evidence Gap Maps, ICED Research
