Wars and climate disasters have led to a threefold rise in internally displaced people in Africa over the past 15 years, according to recent data.
The Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) reports that 35 million people are now displaced within the continent, up from 11.6 million in 2009, the year African governments committed to a landmark agreement to address displacement causes.
Despite progress, IDMC emphasized the need for intensified efforts, particularly given the escalating risks of flooding and droughts.
“The displacement crisis in Africa is critical, but not insurmountable,” said Alexandra Bilak, IDMC’s director. “Governments are taking promising steps to address root causes, but sustained efforts and international support are essential. Helping displaced individuals is integral to achieving a country’s development goals, but urgency is key,” she added.
Conflict remains the leading cause, accounting for 32.5 million displaced individuals, with 80% concentrated in five nations: the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Somalia, and Sudan.
The report differentiates between individuals currently displaced and instances of displacement, which may involve repeated movements or returns home. It also highlighted a dramatic rise in climate-related displacements, increasing sixfold from 1.1 million in 2009 to 6.3 million in 2023.
Floods accounted for 75% of these cases, with drought responsible for 11%. In some regions, such as Nigeria, conflict and climate disasters overlap, compounding challenges for those already displaced.
A UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs spokesperson noted that flooding is driving mass displacement requiring humanitarian responses. “While there’s no humanitarian solution to the climate crisis, the system is adapting to aid those most affected and build resilience to climate shocks,” the spokesperson said.
IDMC also highlighted the challenges of addressing displacement when multiple factors overlap. For instance, in regions like the Sahel, communities face the dual threats of violence and environmental degradation, creating a cycle of displacement that hinders recovery efforts.
The report calls for a stronger focus on long-term solutions that address both the immediate needs of displaced populations and the structural drivers of displacement. This includes investments in climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and conflict prevention.
Bilak stressed the importance of collaboration between governments and international organizations. “African governments must retain leadership in managing displacement, but global partners have a critical role in providing resources, expertise, and solidarity,” she said.
In addition to addressing root causes, IDMC emphasized the need to support internally displaced people (IDPs) with access to housing, education, healthcare, and livelihoods. Without these essentials, many remain in precarious situations, unable to rebuild their lives or contribute fully to their communities.
The report also highlights innovative approaches being implemented in some countries. For example, Ethiopia has piloted programs to integrate IDPs into host communities, while Nigeria is exploring solutions to improve flood forecasting and early warning systems. These efforts demonstrate that progress is possible, but scaling such initiatives requires significant financial and technical support.
The growing displacement crisis underscores the urgency of coordinated action. Failure to address the issue, Bilak warned, risks further destabilizing already fragile regions, exacerbating poverty, and hindering development goals across the continent.
“The window of opportunity to act is narrowing,” Bilak concluded. “Africa’s displacement crisis is a global concern, and addressing it effectively will require both regional commitment and international solidarity.”
