Climate change in Senegal

Climate change will cause an increase in average temperatures over west Africa by between 1.5 and 4 °C (3 °F and 7 °F) by mid-century, relative to 1986–2005.

[4][5] Although Senegal is currently not a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, it is one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change.

[9] The NAPA identifies water resources, agriculture, and coastal zones as the country's most vulnerable sectors.

Rainfall deficits and increased variability due to climate change will likely reduce aquifer recharge rates.

Major population centers are already realizing saltwater intrusion into aquifers and arable land.

[18] Climate change is likely to result in reduced yields of key crops, including sorghum and millet, placing pressure on rural livelihoods[19] since agriculture employs about 70% of the population of Senegal.

[21][22] Moreover, animal herding communities, which include about 2.5 million people in the broader Sahel region, will be severally impacted, because weather variability will lead to increased overgrazing, pressure on water supplies, and subsequent effects on the economic viability of herding communities.

[23] For example, in 2017, pressures on lands led to increased demand for manufactured animal feed, causing prices to skyrocket and farmers to sell large portions of their herds.

[18][9] A National Committee on Climate Change was appointed by presidential degree to support the program.