Climate Change: Women and Girls in South Sudan Face Heightened Risks

Women and girls in South Sudan are facing heightened risks due to climate-fueled heatwaves, which are exacerbated by existing inequalities. Research shows that these events result in health issues, educational disruptions, and increased maternal mortality rates. Experts emphasize the need for effective interventions to mitigate these impacts and improve conditions for vulnerable populations.

Research indicates that women and girls in South Sudan are disproportionately affected by the recent climate-fueled heatwaves, exacerbating health risks and gender inequalities. The findings, published by the World Weather Attribution group, state that February’s heatwave was intensified by climate change, making it approximately 10 times more likely and 2 degrees Celsius hotter than it otherwise would have been.

The extreme temperatures led to health emergencies in schools, where numerous students suffered from heatstroke, resulting in extended closures, which have now become a recurring issue in the region. School infrastructure, often featuring iron roofs without air conditioning, creates unbearable heat environments that hinder education, especially for girls.

As school closures contribute to further educational disruptions, the burden disproportionately falls on women and girls, as they are often responsible for household tasks that expose them to high temperatures. Additionally, the research highlights that rising heat increases the likelihood of heat-related illnesses.

Experts suggest practical measures to mitigate these effects, such as improving classroom ventilation, planting trees, and using lighter paint on buildings. Adapting academic schedules can also help alleviate the negative impact of heatwaves on education.

Persistent gender roles, coupled with the need for child care and limited options for avoiding excessive heat, mean that women in South Sudan experience significant hardships due to these heatwaves. The ongoing climate crisis exacerbates existing inequalities, contributing to higher rates of illness and mortality among women and girls.

The research analysis discusses how extreme heat events correlate with increased risks of miscarriage and stillbirths, further complicating maternal health issues in a country already struggling with high maternal mortality rates.

Without intervention to curb emissions and address gender disparities, heatwaves could become a more frequent and dangerous aspect of life in South Sudan. Experts warn that if the global community does not act swiftly to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, the dangers posed by climate change will only intensify, resulting in higher rates of heatwaves every year.

This article highlights the exacerbating effects of climate change on women and girls in South Sudan, showcasing how extreme weather phenomena not only threaten health but also educational opportunities and social equality. Urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase support for affected populations is necessary to prevent further deterioration of conditions, particularly for vulnerable groups. Addressing these challenges is crucial for creating a more equitable and sustainable future.

Original Source: www.climatechangenews.com