Bearing the burden: climate change-attributable losses and damages in the Sahel and Greater Horn of Africa

Understanding climate‑attributable loss and damage is critical for least developed countries seeking support to address climate impacts. This report analyses data from 18 countries in the Sahel and Horn of Africa between 2000 and 2022, estimating the costs of extreme weather events in terms of lives lost, agricultural damage, and broader socio‑economic impacts.

Climate change contributed to 12,000 deaths and affected nearly 149 million people, with $11.5 billion in crop and livestock losses. Projections suggest costs could reach $160 billion by 2050 under 2°C warming. Beyond economic losses, communities face non‑economic damages, including health impacts, loss of livelihoods, cultural identity, and traditional knowledge.

Despite data gaps in fragile contexts, the report demonstrates that assessment is possible and essential for equitable funding. It calls for improved methodologies, investment in data collection, and attention to vulnerable groups, supporting the Loss and Damage Fund Board and negotiators in designing effective finance mechanisms.