Navigating climate uncertainty: a comprehensive review of climatic variabilities and extreme events on environmental, socio-economic, and livelihood dimensions in Ethiopia with adaptation strategies
Degfie Teku
Abstract
Climate change presents serious challenges globally, with Ethiopia being especially vulnerable due to its reliance on climate-sensitive sectors like agriculture, pastoralism, and forestry. This review focuses on Ethiopia’s unique environmental and socio-economic context, shaped by diverse landscapes and high exposure to climatic variabilities and extreme events. Using a systematic and integrative approach, the study examines the impacts of climate change across historical trends, present conditions, and projected futures. Evidence shows a sharp increase in extremes droughts, for example, have risen by over 30% since the 1980s, and some areas have experienced a 20–50% decline in seasonal rainfall. Between 1960 and 2020, average annual temperatures increased by about 1.3°C, with projections estimating a further rise of 1.5–3.1°C by 2050. These changes threaten food security, water resources, health, and economic stability. The review identifies varying regional impacts and highlights communities with differing levels of vulnerability and resilience. It critically evaluates current adaptation strategies, emphasising the need for integrated, inclusive approaches that promote sustainable practices, enhance collaboration among stakeholders, and build effective monitoring and evaluation frameworks. By synthesising existing knowledge and offering practical recommendations, this review aims to support policymakers, researchers, and development actors in formulating adaptive, evidence-based responses to Ethiopia’s climate challenges.