While intended to protect players’ health, the introduction of cooling breaks in the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) disrupts the flow of the 45-minute halves for viewers.

This inconvenience, however, serves as a stark reminder of a larger, more pressing issue: the “global boiling,” as aptly termed by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres. This climate change phenomenon, driven by human activities emitting heat-trapping greenhouse gases, poses an existential threat to our planet.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)’s sixth report underscores the urgency of action, highlighting our proximity to critical planetary boundaries.

The consequences will be disproportionately felt by developing nations, though some regions, like Europe’s wine-growing areas, might see benefits from shifting weather patterns as indicated in the Economist.

Consequently, adaptation strategies will vary based on the severity of extreme weather events. For the 2023 Afcon in Ivory Coast, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) proactively introduced two-minute cooling breaks at the 30th and 75th minutes, with provisions for additional breaks under extreme heat.

This approach should serve as a precursor for African leaders and policymakers to embrace climate change action in all sectors.

One example lies in the Kenya Roads (Roadside Stations) Regulations 2023. While aiming to improve roadside infrastructure, they currently lack an explicit focus on climate change adaptation. This presents an opportunity to integrate climate-conscious thinking into future infrastructure development.

The regulations could be strengthened in several ways: One, by encouraging the creation of green spaces and urban forests around roadside stations.

This would help mitigate heat island effects, where urban areas experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas due to reduced vegetation and increased heat-absorbing surfaces.

Secondly, by mandating the use of sustainable and climate-resilient materials in construction. This could involve using recycled materials, choosing materials that are less energy-intensive to produce, and opting for materials that can withstand extreme weather events.

Thirdly, by incorporating rainwater harvest systems to collect and use runoff water for irrigation or other purposes. This would help conserve water and reduce reliance on unsustainable sources.

Fourthly, by promoting the electrification of vehicles through charging hubs at the stations. This would reduce emissions from the transport sector, a major contributor to climate change.

By following the example of the Makueni Green Roads for Water project, the regulations can be amended to directly address climate change concerns. This would transform them into a true model for future-proof infrastructure development in Africa.

Broad, systemic and climate-centric policymaking encompassing all aspects of society, from sports and agriculture to transport and the economy, is crucial.

Government policies should nudge citizens towards key adaptation measures. While the sports industry has introduced cooling breaks, the agriculture sector needs to prioritise water conservation, and the transport sector leverage roadside stations to enhance green transport.

Ultimately, a robust national dialogue is essential to raise awareness and accelerate carbon-neutral development. This conversation will foster a sociological imagination necessary for inclusive, climate-conscious development.

The existential threat of climate change demands proactive adaptation and resilience building in Africa. The cooling breaks and the roads project offer valuable insights into possible adaptation strategies.

By weaving climate-conscious thinking into every facet of development, Africa can navigate the global boiling threat and secure a sustainable future.

— The writer is Climate Change and Food system communication consultant

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