As the world prepares for the possibility of a Super El Niño, Africa’s long experience of droughts, floods and climate irregularity offers useful lessons for protecting food and nutrition security, water supplies, health access and livelihoods.

In this article, published by The Conversation, Professor Tafadzwa Mabhaudhi, Regional Director of Lancet Countdown Africa, reflects on five key lessons from Africa’s experience of living with climate extremes. He explains that, because many African communities have had to cope with high levels of poverty, underdevelopment and repeated climate shocks that affect food systems and health, the global community can learn from the practical ways they have adapted and help reduce the risks linked to El Niño.

Professor Mabhaudhi highlights the importance of early warning systems, locally led adaptation, integrated resource management and sustained investment in resilience. As climate change increases the risks associated with extreme weather, these lessons show why food, water, health and livelihoods must remain at the centre of climate action.

Read the full article published by The Conversation.