Women, children bear 80% impact of climate change- Minister

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 The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has called attention to the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and children, who make up 80% of its victims.

Speaking at the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) COP16 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the Minister urged international organizations and development partners to increase investments in empowering women and children.

Women at the Heart of Food Production and Climate Solutions

Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted women’s critical role in global food production, noting that they account for 70% of food processing and 60% of smallholder farming activities worldwide. She emphasized the need for their active involvement in land restoration and climate adaptation initiatives.

The Minister also spotlighted the health hazards faced by women who rely on traditional cooking fuels. She equated the inhalation of cooking smoke to smoking 40 cigarettes per meal, stressing the urgency of transitioning to cleaner energy alternatives.

Climate Change Fuels Conflict and Vulnerabilities

Drawing attention to the northeast region of Nigeria, Sulaiman-Ibrahim outlined the connection between climate change and conflicts, including the displacement of millions due to desertification and the shrinking Lake Chad Basin. These climate-induced challenges, she noted, exacerbate poverty, insecurity, and social vulnerabilities such as sexual and gender-based violence, early marriages, and disrupted education for women and children.

Commending Nigeria’s Climate Efforts

The Minister praised initiatives by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, including the signing of the Climate Change Act, the establishment of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), and the adoption of a Climate Gender Policy. These steps, she said, underscore Nigeria’s commitment to addressing climate issues through gender-sensitive approaches.

Call to Action

Sulaiman-Ibrahim urged governments and stakeholders to scale up targeted climate actions, emphasizing the indispensable role of women in developing innovative solutions and building resilient communities. “Empowering women is essential to addressing climate challenges and achieving the sustainable development goals,” she said.

The Minister’s address serves as a powerful reminder of the intersection between climate change, gender inequality, and sustainable development, advocating for women’s inclusion as pivotal agents of change in the global climate agenda.


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