In Africa, there has been a growing concern about the high rate of environmental degradation and the consequential effect on the ecosystem. The environmental issues in Africa range from climate change; air, water and soil pollution; harmful mining and extractive activities; biodiversity and land degradation; deforestation; and adverse agricultural practices. In terms of governance, several measures have been undertaken at the regional level to conserve the environment and respond to some of these most critical challenges. The creation of regional environmental treaties, initiatives and institutions in Africa has ushered in significant milestones in the development of the African regional environmental governance framework. These treaties, organisations and policy strategies have played a crucial role in shaping the region’s environmental governance. The establishment of these frameworks has fostered cooperation among African countries in addressing environmental challenges at the regional level. It has further provided a platform for the exchange of knowledge, best practices and resources, as well as paved the way for judicial environmentalism. This article examines some of these legal instruments and governance frameworks in place and also highlights their strengths and weaknesses. It indicates other areas of improvement for maximum effectiveness and management. The analysis also reveals that while there are some mechanisms in place to address certain environmental issues, gaps exist in the enforcement and implementation of these regulations and policies.
Jennifer Heaven Mike (Sat,) studied this question.