Banjul, a coastal city in The Gambia, is at high risk of becoming submerged due to rising sea levels driven by climate change. Severe flooding in July 2022 impacted tens of thousands of residents. Population decline is evident, with many planning to leave by 2050. However, initiatives funded through international aid aim to restore natural defenses and promote sustainability.
A city in West Africa is on the brink of becoming an underwater ghost town due to rising sea levels attributed to climate change. Since the onset of industrialism in the 1800s, global temperatures have risen sharply, causing sea levels worldwide to rise significantly. Banjul, The Gambia, is one city facing severe threats, experiencing the devastating effects of climate change directly, with a torrential storm in July 2022 affecting over 50,000 residents due to intense flooding.
The future of Greater Banjul is particularly concerning; according to James F.P. Gomez, The Gambia’s Minister of Fisheries, Water Resources, and National Assembly Matters, even a one-meter rise in sea levels could submerge the entire city. Historical low-lying areas, coupled with issues such as commercial sand mining, have compromised the city’s natural defenses. Banjul residents express deep concern for their livelihoods, with gardener Aminata Jatta stating, “The sand mining has devastated our lives.”
Population decline in Banjul is a pressing issue. Once home to approximately 45,000 people in 1983, the city is now projected to have only 26,000 by 2024. Furthermore, a study by Dr. Nfamara K. Dampha reveals that 64% of residents plan to leave by 2050, driven by economic challenges and climate threats.
Despite these serious issues, initiatives are underway to combat the rising sea levels in Banjul. The Gambia received $12 million in November 2024 from the Global Environment Facility to fund the Climate-Resilient Banjul project, aiming to implement transformative changes. Additionally, the EU-funded City-link Ostend Banjul project is working to restore the coastline by planting thousands of coconut trees and vegetation to strengthen natural barriers.
Banjul’s plight is not unique, as other locations, such as properties in British Columbia, Canada, face similar risks due to climate change. Individuals can help mitigate climate change by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and transitioning to renewable energy sources.
Banjul, The Gambia, is facing a critical moment as rising sea levels threaten to turn it into an underwater ghost town. The city’s residents are experiencing significant challenges due to climate change, with many considering relocation. Nevertheless, initiatives aimed at enhancing sustainability and restoring natural barriers offer hope for Banjul’s future. Collective action to combat climate change is essential, as its impacts are felt globally.
Original Source: www.thecooldown.com
