How Sub-Saharan Africa can achieve SDGs by 2100

Earth4All's latest report on achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2100 has shed light on two possible scenarios that could unfold in the region. The 'Giant Leap' scenario paints a hopeful picture of poverty plummeting from 500 million to 25 million people and hunger being nearly eradicated. However, the 'Too Little Too Late' scenario presents a grim outlook with poverty projected to rise to 900 million, hunger still affecting 180 million, and over a billion people lacking access to clean water. Sandrine Dixson-DeKleve, Executive Chair at Earth4All, joined CNBC Africa to discuss the pressing need for economic transformation to meet the SDGs in the region. The report emphasizes the urgency of the situation and the crucial steps that must be taken to avert the worst-case scenario. Dixson-DeKleve highlighted the interconnectedness of poverty, inequality, and environmental issues, stressing the importance of addressing these challenges simultaneously. The report calls for five extraordinary turnarounds that break with current trends to accelerate progress towards the SDGs. These include debt cancellation, reducing economic disparities, empowering women, and ensuring universal access to food and energy. While some progress has been made in poverty reduction and education access across the continent, the current economic climate poses significant challenges. Higher inflation levels, a climate emergency, and constrained fiscal budgets are hindering efforts to achieve the SDGs. Dixson-DeKleve underscored the need for increased financial support and innovative solutions to bridge the gap and propel the region towards sustainable development. The report also highlighted the impact of the climate emergency on economic transformation in Sub-Saharan Africa. The continent faces a critical moment where decisions made now will shape its future. Addressing the climate crisis is imperative to prevent further exacerbation of existing challenges and ensure the well-being of the population. The report calls for urgent action and collaboration between global stakeholders to mobilize resources and implement effective strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change. As the African continent grapples with a myriad of challenges, including the pandemic, conflict, and climate-related disasters, solidarity and cooperation are essential to build resilience. With the upcoming summit in New York, there is an opportunity to chart a new course and prioritize sustainable development in Sub-Saharan Africa. By heeding the calls for action outlined in the report, policymakers, economists, and activists can work together to support the region in achieving its development goals. The time for transformative change is now, and the future of Sub-Saharan Africa depends on the collective efforts of all stakeholders to ensure a prosperous and sustainable tomorrow.