Africa loses $12.7bn annually to infrastructure damages from disasters, report finds

Africa suffers an average of $12.7 billion in annual infrastructure losses from natural disasters, according to a new report by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).

The study, released Monday, shows that floods account for about 70% of the damage, while earthquakes — less frequent but often more devastating — make up about 28%.

“Climate change is expected to increase the impact of disasters on infrastructure by as much as 27%, resulting in average annual loss of $2.4 billion,” the report said. “Africa is one of the most vulnerable regions to climate-related disasters.”

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At a regional level, eastern Africa is worst hit, with $5.5 billion in yearly damage. Northern and southern Africa follow at about $2.3 billion each, while western Africa loses roughly $1.58 billion.

At the country level, South Africa records the highest losses at $1.7 billion annually, followed by Nigeria ($1.1 billion) and Algeria ($1 billion).

Although smaller nations record lower absolute losses, the relative economic impact is heavier. Annual infrastructure damage represents 1.5% of GDP in Lesotho, 1.25% in Mauritius, and 1% in Comoros.

The CDRI — a partnership of UN agencies, development banks, private companies, and academic institutions — said the findings underscore the urgent need for investment in resilient infrastructure across the continent.