Research on the integration of mental health in climate adaptation in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSE 013)

Research assessment of environment-induced mental health risks, the current climate crisis, and food insecurity in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Context

Climate change poses significant challenges to African economies, particularly in the Global Horn of Africa, where extreme weather events like droughts and floods have intensified. For example, in Somalia, due to heavy rains, the country has the potential to cause flash floods and river floods and provide favourable conditions for desert locusts’ breeding and spreading. In Kenya, there is a likelihood of flooding in eastern Kenya and coastal areas, which could lead to displacement and the inundation of farmlands. Ethiopia is expected to experience drought in its central and northern parts. The southern and eastern parts are expected to experience river floods and flash floods. The floods present a food security crisis.

The impacts of climate change threaten sustainable development, particularly in agriculture-based livelihoods like farming and livestock. These disruptions extend to resource management, health, and productivity, with an increasing incidence of mental health disorders, with climate change indirectly exacerbating psychological vulnerabilities and stress in affected communities.

The scope of this study is Kenya, Ethiopia and Uganda. Gender equity and social inclusion are essential components of the project as it recognizes that climate change affects women, men and youth differently. This follows the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Gender Action Plan priority on capacity building, knowledge management and communication, gender balance participation and women’s leadership in climate response.  With its potential to integrate climate change actions into mental health awareness programs in the region, this research offers a ray of hope in reducing the burden of disease and fostering a more sustainable future.

Participant countries / Study Trips: Kenya, Ethiopia and Uganda.

Final workshop: Nairobi, Kenya

Goal

The main goal is to explore the relationship between climate change and mental health in the agricultural sector and suggest ways to reduce the impact of climate change on mental health, especially among farming communities. This targeted research is essential to addressing the negative effects of climate change experienced by farmers across the continent. The findings will help shape selected countries’ food security policies and strategies.

Synopsis of the Exchange

ACCRCC, supported by the Climate Action Africa (CAA) Initiative, had conducted 2 conducted three research studies in Kenya, Uganda and Ethiopia to promote vital knowledge exchange among Sub-Saharan African countries affected by the climate crisis, especially the impacts of El Niño. It aligns with CAA’s focus on addressing Africa’s food insecurity, exploring the human-ecosystem interface, and gathering data on the relationship between the climate crisis and mental health and well-being.

A range of research activities will take place over six months. These include:

1. Literature reviews
2. Workshops
3. Focus group discussions
4. Key informant interviews
5. Field visits
6. Community engagements
7. Seminars
8. Media and communication documentaries

Expected Outcomes

• • Increased awareness around the inherent linkages between the climate crisis, adaptation in the agricultural sector and environment-induced mental health risks.
  • Increased climate-mental health data and information databases
  • More informed research and policy-making communities