Resilient food systems in Sub-Saharan Africa: climate change impacts, adaptation hurdles, and nature-based solutions

Abstract

Sub-Saharan Africa remains particularly vulnerable to climate change risks because its rain-fed agricultural systems are susceptible to heat waves, unpredictable rainfall, and natural disasters. This review assesses the impacts of climate variability on the food systems of Tanzania, South Africa, and Nigeria, highlighting the challenges of adaptation and the opportunities to apply Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) to build resilience by 2030. Through a thematic analysis of relevant scientific literature and policy documents from 2020 to 2026, the study examines the roles of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA), agroforestry, soil rehabilitation, and ecosystem management. The findings show that, although Nature-based Solutions (NbS) enhance soil fertility, soil moisture content, and income diversity, the widespread application of these methods is hindered by financial limitations, the ongoing digital divide regarding climate information, and poor institutional coordination. A comparative analysis reveals different vulnerabilities based on location. For example, northern Nigeria experiences drought conditions, while the south experiences flooding, and Tanzania relies on rainfall. This study concludes that creating resilient food systems requires radical changes in governance policies, such as incorporating financing for all stakeholders, providing decentralized climate information, and establishing specific policies for each area. Addressing the digital divide using mobile technology while improving extension services for smallholder farmers is recommended. Overall, achieving a balance between ecology and socioeconomic empowerment is necessary for resilience in the face of a changing climate.