African cities are facing an escalating environmental crisis as rising sea levels, driven by climate change, threaten to engulf coastal regions, putting millions of people at risk of losing their homes, jobs, and way of life. Experts warn that without urgent intervention, many African cities could disappear by 2100, displacing entire communities and causing severe economic losses.

The vulnerability of Africa's coastal regions is exacerbated by rapid urbanization, weak infrastructure, and increasing climate-related disasters like flooding and storm surges. Scientists predict that if global temperatures continue to rise at the current pace, vast areas of land could be swallowed by the sea, leading to widespread displacement and economic devastation.

Lagos, Nigeria, Africa's most populous city, is one of the cities at risk. The relentless encroachment of the Atlantic Ocean, exacerbated by climate change-induced sea level rise, poses a significant threat to millions of residents, critical infrastructure, and economic activities. A study conducted by the University of Plymouth warned that a sea level rise of three to nine feet could have "a catastrophic effect on human activities," leading to widespread displacement, loss of livelihoods, and severe damage to coastal infrastructure.

Alexandria, Egypt, founded by Alexander the Great, is another city facing an existential threat as its beaches vanish due to rising sea levels. The UN Climate Panel (IPCC) has already written the worst-case scenario: in 2050, "the sea will rise by one meter". Then it will swallow "a third of the ultra-fertile land of the Nile Delta and historic cities like Alexandria will be flooded". Every year, the city of Alexander the Great sinks by three millimeters, weakened by the Nile dams upstream that prevent silt from consolidating its soil and by offshore gas drilling. By 2100, the Mediterranean could rise by as much as two feet, according to NPR, putting Alexandria at even greater risk of catastrophic flooding.

The Egyptian Ministry of Water Resources warns that hundreds of people have already had to leave buildings weakened by floods in 2015 and 2020. They are only the first of many who will be affected if urgent action is not taken to curb emissions and strengthen climate resilience.

While governments and environmental groups are working on adaptation strategies like seawalls, improved drainage, and mangrove restoration, the challenge remains enormous. The question is, can these cities be saved in time? If the world doesn't act fast, Africa's coastline may look drastically different by 2100, with some of its most vibrant urban hubs lost to the ocean.

The implications of rising sea levels on African cities are far-reaching, with severe consequences for the economy, infrastructure, and human settlements. It is imperative that urgent action is taken to address the root causes of climate change and to develop effective adaptation strategies to mitigate its effects. The fate of Africa's coastal cities hangs in the balance, and the world must come together to ensure their survival.