Source: UNDP, July 2025

Across Africa, land degradation and climate change are intensifying and converging, fuelling a major environmental crisis. Unsustainable land use, deforestation and soil erosion have rendered millions of hectares infertile, depriving communities of the natural resources they need. At the same time, the effects of climate change, such as changing rainfall patterns, rising temperatures, more frequent droughts and floods, are increasing the pressure on agriculture and water resources.

Today, it is estimated that 65% of Africa’s land is affected by degradation and drought, affecting more than 400 million people and causing economic losses in excess of 70 billion US dollars every year.

How land restoration strengthens ecosystems and communities across Africa | UNDP Climate Promise