Imperial College London Leads Major Climate Project in Africa

Imperial College London is spearheading a new £6 million project aimed at bolstering the climate change resilience of African cities. Funded by Wellcome, the project will focus on four cities in Ghana and Rwanda, gathering critical data on temperature, water quality, and sanitation to assess the impact of climate change on public health and infrastructure.

The research team will collaborate with local stakeholders to develop strategies that mitigate the effects of climate change, such as extreme heat, floods, and droughts. By analyzing the data collected, researchers will identify vulnerable populations and propose solutions to protect them from the adverse impacts of climate change.

Professor Majid Ezzati, Academic Director of Imperial Global Ghana, emphasized the importance of this project: “Climate change will significantly impact African cities, affecting public health, infrastructure, and livelihoods. This project aims to provide evidence-based solutions to build resilient and sustainable urban environments.”

The project will also focus on raising awareness about the dangers of asbestos, a widespread issue in African infrastructure. By understanding the risks associated with asbestos exposure, the project aims to promote safer demolition and construction practices.

This groundbreaking initiative demonstrates the commitment of Imperial College London to addressing global challenges. By working closely with African partners, the project aims to create a lasting impact on the continent’s urban landscape and public health.