Abstract
Climate change is increasingly recognised as a critical factor in shaping national security
dynamics. Africa, despite having the lowest per capita green gas emissions, is highly
vulnerable to climate-related risks. Existing studies have primarily focused on the
impacts of climate change on food, water, land and human security. This study aimed
to provide a nuanced understanding of the implications of climate change on national
security and regional cooperation in Africa. Using secondary data, the study employed
case studies from the Sahel, Nile Basin and Horn of Africa to explore how climate
change exacerbates transboundary security challenges. It also assessed the effectiveness
of existing regional mechanisms in addressing these issues. The findings reveal
complex, interconnected climate security risks. These include increased intercommunal
violence due to resource scarcity, higher migration and displacement rates,
and an increase in organised crime and violent extremism. This study contributes to the
knowledge on climate change and security risks across borders and the importance of
regional collaboration in addressing these issues. It provides policy recommendations
to strengthen regional institutions and to develop strategies to improve regional
cooperation and security governance in response to climate change.