Climate change is a global crisis with diverse effects and consequences. These effects are not evenly distributed. Women, particularly in low-income communities like those in Nigeria, bear the brunt of these impacts due to existing gender inequalities, socioeconomic vulnerabilities, and limited access to resources.
In this post, we look at how climate change disproportionately affects women’s health, explore the trends that are exacerbating the impact of climate change on health, highlight some policy solutions that can be implemented to combat this escalating issue and finally, mention activities individuals and communities can take to lessen the impact of climate change on health.
In Nigeria, where maternal mortality rates are among the highest globally (1,047 per 100 000 live births in 2020 – WHO), climate change exacerbates risks to women’s reproductive health. Extreme heat, floods, and droughts strain healthcare systems, limiting access to prenatal and postnatal care. Rising temperatures increase the prevalence of vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever, which are especially dangerous during pregnancy. Additionally, water scarcity which results from prolonged droughts and inadequate water infrastructure may impacts hygiene and increase the risk of infections during childbirth. Also, particularly in rural Nigeria where women are the primary caregivers and food providers, climate-induced disruptions in agriculture, such as droughts and unpredictable rainfall, reduce crop production and contribute to food scarcity. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are disproportionately affected by malnutrition putting their health and the development of their children at risk.
Natural disasters that lead to displacement, loss of livelihoods, prolonged exposure to extreme weather and breakdown in social structure predispose women to gender-based violence and have a major impact on women’s mental health. Reports from flood-affected areas in Nigeria have shown an increase in sexual violence and exploitation in overcrowded IDP camps. In patriarchal societies such as Nigeria, these pressures are exacerbated by gender-specific issues such as childcare obligations and the women’s limited decision-making ability.
Some trends such as the rapid urbanization, weak healthcare systems and economic inequalities escalate the impact of climate change. Rapid urbanization in some cities has resulted in the expansion of slums, many of which are located in flood-prone areas. Poor infrastructure and overcrowding in these areas worsen the health impacts of climate change.They puts women at a higher risk of waterborne infections and inadequate sanitation. Also, healthcare system in low income communities, especially in rural areas, are ill equipped to deal with climate-related health emergencies, leaving women more vulnerable due to insufficient financing, inadequate personnel, and lack of climate-resilient healthcare facilities. In addition, economic reliance and limited access to financial resources among women may limit their ability to adapt to climate change.
To mitigate the effect of climate change on health, political will and policies aimed at developing climate-resilience are key. Policies that allocate resources for climate-resilient infrastructure, strengthen healthcare systems by equipping healthcare facilities with resources to address climate-induced diseases, train healthcare workers to recognise and respond to climate-related health issues, particularly those affecting women, increase access to care in underserved areas, and enforce policies against GBV in disaster contexts are all important steps that can be taken. Also, integrating gender perspectives into climate policies ensures that women’s unique vulnerabilities and strengths are addressed. Programs that encourage women’s participation in climate decision-making and offer gender-sensitive disaster response measures are essential. Additionally, sustainable farming practices, can help secure food supplies while tailored nutrition programs for women and children can reduce the health impacts of food insecurity. Furthermore, empowering women through education and provision of economic opportunities increase their resilience to climate change. Microfinance schemes and vocational training can enable women to diversify their income sources and reduce reliance on climate-sensitive livelihoods.
Individuals also have a role to play. Individuals can advocate for climate action and gender equality by participating in campaigns, supporting NGOs (such as Climate action Africa, Climate change network Nigeria, Revamp Rave Network and MAG foundation) working in affected area and raising awareness about the intersection of climate change and women’s health. Individuals can also reduce their personal carbon footprints through energy conservation, waste reduction, and supporting the use of sustainable products. Collective action at the household level can also significantly impact community resilience. Finally, local communities can form support networks to share resources and knowledge on sustainable practices. Women-led initiatives are particularly effective in fostering resilience at the grassroots level.
Global/ International organizations can also provide technical and financial support to countries like Nigeria to implement gender-sensitive climate policies. Their collaboration with local governments and NGOs can ensure that resources are directed where they are most needed.
And you, our dear readers, are urged to take action in your communities, either through advocacy, education, or personal lifestyle changes. Small, collective actions can drive significant progress in addressing climate change and its impact on women’s health.