Obstacles facing Africa's young climate scientists

Abstract

Current and future climate change poses a substantial threat to the African continent. Young scientists are needed to advance Earth systems science on the continent, but they face significant challenges. Future climate projections suggest that Africa is one of the most vulnerable continents to extreme climate events/disasters1,2. Climate change and environmental degradation pose a substantial threat to Africa3, but also provide an opportunity for the continent to develop local knowledge and skills, and to thrive in the long term. Strengthened investment in the study of Earth system sciences and a conscious effort to nurture scientific talents are needed to position the continent for a favourable future. However, early-career scientists in Africa face numerous challenges in securing resources, training and research positions. These challenges threaten to undermine the continent’s ability to deal with environmental change resulting from climate change.