Climate Change and Maritime Security: Implications for Africa's Regional Development

Abstract

Climate change poses a significant threat to maritime security, particularly for coastal and small island African countries. This study explores the relationship between climate change and maritime security by scrutinising the impact of ecological changes on regional stability, economic growth, and security instability across the continent. The study utilised qualitative data from various sources, including textbooks, scholarly journals, magazines, and online resources, to comprehensively understand the complex relationship between climate change and maritime security. The study investigates the implications of rising sea levels, the increased frequency of severe climate actions, and coastal corrosion on Africa's maritime territory and economic activity. The findings show that climate-induced maritime threats worsen existing security challenges, damage regional assets, and underline the pressing need for coordinated responses to maintain economic well-being, watch over vulnerable populations, and improve regional flexibility. This study bestows a growing body of literature on climate change and security, presenting meaningful recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders. These comprise attractive regional collaboration, developing global maritime security strategies, and incorporating climate adaptation measures into national and regional progress plans. African states have better organised their intelligence capabilities to tackle the challenges posed by climate change while ensuring marine security and sustainable development.