By Emmanuel Nduka
In recent weeks, Nigerians have been grappling with heat waves. The weather all over Africa’s most populous nation has been simmering, with netizens jesting that the country may be edging close to the Sun. Except for those privileged enough to provide steady electricity and air cooling systems for themselves, majority of Nigerians are drenched at night and unable to sleep peacefully.
As remedies, the Nigerian Metrological Agency (NIMET) has advised Nigerians to wear light clothings, practice adequate fluid intake, always seek shade, and use fans/air conditioning systems. “Avoid strenuous physical activity during peak heat hours (Stay indoors as much as possible between 12:00 noon and 4:00 pm). Air temperatures hit 41°C over the North and 39°C over the South with model projections indicating temperatures to remain high in the coming days,” NIMET said in its weather and climate update posted on its X handle on February 14.
The situation is not even close to being over, as the Agency says the current excessive heat being experienced in the country will persist. The agency outlined the weather’s implications. It identified dehydration as one of the fallouts of the extreme weather conditions, adding that this could cause fainting, chicken pox disease, measles, heat rash, weakness of the body, slight fever, dry lips; heat-related illnesses; respiratory issues; and increased vulnerability to chronic conditions. “Air temperatures hit 41°C over the North and 39°C over the South with model Projections indicating temperatures to remain high in the coming days,” NIMET said.
10 Hottest Countries In Africa
But Nigeria is not even among the top 10 hottest countries in Africa! According to statistics from WiseVoter Institute, Mali leads as the hottest African country as per temperatures experienced in 2023, with an average yearly temperature of 83.89°F (28.83°C). Also located in Western Africa just like Nigeria, a large part of Mali is covered by the Sahara Desert. The nation experiences minimal rainfall and frequent drought.
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Second on the list is Burkina Faso, also located in West Africa. The country which is under the leadership of a military junta is facing a serious situation with temperatures at 84.67°F, threatening agriculture, which is its mainstay. Burkina Faso is also prone to frequent droughts and food scarcity. As a backup plan, local communities are adopting water conservation practices and growing drought-resistant crops.
At number 3 is Senegal, with scorching heat waves at 84.04°F. President Macky Sall is inspiring efforts to combat climate change by investing in renewable energy sources.
Next is Mauritania. In 2023, Mauritania faced year-round temperatures reaching 83.88°F. In addressing these challenges, the country has partnered with international organizations to focus on renewable energy solutions and sustainable fishing practices.
Then there is Djibouti, known as one of the hottest countries in the world. The East African country is facing pressing issues of heat-related health risks and water scarcity with temperatures reaching 83.3°F. But its government is working on harnessing geothermal energy and implementing innovative desalination techniques to secure its supply of water.
The Gambia is also one of Africa’s hottest location, with an average temperature of 83.05°F. The Gambia encounters distinctive obstacles caused by deforestation and habitat degradation. Its government is however moving to combat desertification and encourage biodiversity by proactively engaging in afforestation initiatives and adopting sustainable land management practices.
In Guinea-Bissau, average temperature is at 82.49°F. The nation is currently facing challenges posed by increasing sea levels and coastal erosion, which have significant effects on its communities and agricultural areas. Steps are being undertaken to build climate-resilient infrastructure projects to protect its coastline and ensure the safety of citizens.
Junta-led Niger stands at 82.49°F, making it another hot zone in Africa. This has made the government to prioritize sustainable land management and investments in irrigation systems to boost agricultural production.
Benin and South Sudan completes the pack, with 82.45°F and 82.35°F temperatures respectively. While Benin faces critical heat stress and water scarcity issues, and is promoting water conservation and implementing climate-smart agriculture practices to adapt to rising temperatures, South Sudan is experiencing scorching temperatures, intensifying its already existing challenges, such as insecurity and food insecurity. The Sudanese government is partnering with international organizations to foster sustainable agricultural practices and enhance climate resilience.
