The African Development Bank (AfDB) has warned that an impending 'super' El Niño could inflict a combined $10bn to $20bn economic hit on affected African countries, triggering mass migration from hard-hit areas.Climate shocks threaten food security, infrastructure, and government finances, with GDP reductions of 1% to 2% in heavily impacted nations.Anthony Nyong, AfDB's climate chief, highlighted that the El Niño event could reduce Africa's projected economic growth from 4.4% in 2027 to a lower rate due to its severity.

The phenomenon, linked to Pacific Ocean warming trends, is expected to cause severe droughts in the Sahel and flooding in East Africa, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities.Nyong emphasized that climate adaptation finance needs have surged, with Africa requiring up to $100bn this year.

The AfDB plans to address these challenges through restructuring projects, accessing multilateral funds like the Green Climate Fund, and supporting countries facing resource shortages.Migration pressures are also expected to rise, particularly in regions like Sudan and Somalia, where food prices could double.Nyong urged urgent action to build resilience against climate disasters, warning that delayed responses risk pushing nations into poverty.