Minister Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim reported that 80 percent of climate change victims are women and children, urging targeted interventions. At the UNCCD COP16, she emphasized women’s vital role in agriculture and food systems, highlighted health risks from traditional cooking methods, and called for investments to aid these vulnerable groups in combating climate change. Her remarks underscored Nigeria’s commitment to climate action and the necessity of empowering women in these efforts.
Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, has affirmed that nearly 80 percent of individuals impacted by climate change are women and children, underscoring the pressing need for focused interventions. While addressing the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) COP16 in Riyadh, she emphasized the importance of investing in these vulnerable populations to mitigate climate-related challenges.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted the pivotal role of women in global food systems, indicating that they constitute 70 percent of food processors and 60 percent of smallholder farmers worldwide. She stated, “Empowering women to participate in land restoration and sustainable practices is essential,” thus advocating for their involvement in agricultural sustainability. Furthermore, she pointed out serious health risks associated with traditional cooking methods, noting that women using wood or charcoal for cooking are exposed to harmful levels of smoke equivalent to inhaling the fumes of 40 cigarettes per meal.
In Nigeria, women represent over 50 percent of the population and are responsible for 70 percent of agricultural efforts, making them instrumental in the transition to a green economy. The Minister elaborated on the socio-economic challenges posed by land degradation and desertification across Nigeria’s regions, particularly in the Northeast, where climate change has intensified conflicts and elevated risks of sexual and gender-based violence.
She commended Nigeria’s government for its climate initiatives, praising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for implementing the Climate Change Act and establishing the National Council on Climate Change. Additionally, she noted the rollout of Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Implementation Framework (2023–2030) aimed at innovation and adaptation to curb climate change impacts.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim underscored the importance of Climate Gender Policy in strengthening women’s participation in climate action, stating, “Empowering women to participate in climate action catalyzes innovative solutions and builds community resilience.” She encouraged collaboration with international organizations to equip women with resources necessary for combating climate change effectively.
The UNCCD COP16 continues to be a platform for global leaders to address pressing environmental issues, emphasizing Nigeria’s commitment to combating desertification while promoting inclusive approaches to climate action.
The article addresses the urgent issue of climate change, specifically its disproportionate impact on women and children. It highlights the need for targeted interventions and investments to support these vulnerable groups. Additionally, it discusses the significant role of women in agriculture and food systems, which underscores their potential as vital contributors to climate solutions. The context of the article is provided by the ongoing UNCCD COP16, emphasizing Nigeria’s governmental efforts in addressing these challenges and the importance of inclusive policies in climate action.
The findings presented by Minister Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim call for immediate action to support women and children in the face of climate change, as they represent a significant portion of those affected. By fostering women’s involvement in sustainable practices and addressing the socio-economic consequences of environmental degradation, Nigeria aims to advance its climate initiatives through innovative solutions, ultimately contributing to the global fight against climate change. Enhanced collaboration with international partners is essential for achieving these goals and empowering women to lead in this critical area.
Original Source: businessday.ng
