Intersecting vulnerabilities: A review of climate change and the wellbeing of girls and young women in sub-saharan Africa

This thematic literature review examines the impacts of climate-induced drought on the health, nutrition, and socio-economic wellbeing of adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) from 2000 to 2025. A systematic literature search was conducted in Scopus, supplemented by relevant international agency reports and publications, and eligible studies were analysed thematically. Findings indicate that rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and worsening food and water insecurity disproportionately undermine AGYW’s physical and mental health, exacerbate nutritional deficiencies, and restrict educational and livelihood opportunities. These adverse effects are compounded by structural inequalities such as gender-based discrimination, poverty, and limited access to healthcare, education, and social protection. Despite facing significant risks, AGYW remain largely excluded from climate adaptation policies and planning processes. This study develops the Gender-Responsive Livelihoods Model, a conceptual framework for understanding intersectional climate resilience among AGYW. Framing climate vulnerability as a human rights issue, this synthesis concludes that inclusive, gender-responsive climate strategies are urgently needed to protect AGYW’s rights to health, nutrition, education, and economic security, and to foster equitable and sustainable resilience across SSA.