Growing populations and climatic impacts are placing unprecedented pressure on water resources. This is true of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region which comprises 16 Member States, whose population in 2018, was estimated to be at 345.2 million, a rise from 336.9 million as of 2017. Rivers play a pivotal role in the region's socio-economic development, as evidenced by its reliance on these waterways. Southern Africa boasts of 15 major transboundary river basins, shared among neighbouring countries, with 13 basins entirely within the region's borders. However, the equitable distribution of water resources remains a challenge, exacerbated by climatic factors influencing rainfall patterns and the geographical distribution of river basins. While these rivers can spark conflicts, they also serve as conduits for peace and cooperation. Therefore, prioritizing transboundary water cooperation is not merely about economic prosperity but also essential for nurturing stability and harmony throughout the region.
Under the GEF/UNEP MedProgramme, a Nexus Policy Dialogue for Lebanon based on a Nexus Assessment, led by GWP-Med aims to promote tangible solutions contributing to the security of water, energy and food resources, while protecting valuable ecosystems and their functions.
On September 19, 2024, marking the celebration of National Science Day 2024, the Yellow River Lecture was triumphantly held within the esteemed premises of 80 students from Zhengzhou No. 47 Junior High School, embracing the central theme, "Enhancing Public Comprehension of Scientific Knowledge and Fostering Contributions to a Technological Powerhouse."
The “Drina Nexus Roadmap”, was praised for its potential to guide transboundary cooperation towards sustainable development in the Drina basin, by high-level panelists at the Sarajevo Energy and Climate Week. The Roadmap was developed in 2022 by Global Water Partnership-Mediterranean together with the UNECE, in the frame of the SEE Nexus project funded by the Austrian Development Agency.
At the 5th Joint Plenary of Horizon 2020 REXUS and LENSES PRIMA in Larisa, Greece GWP-Med leader of Communication and Dissemination Work Package organised interviews with major national and key local media featuring the project's innovative methods and tools under development.
On September 25, 2024, as a pivotal event within the 2024 National Science Day festivities, the "Hand in Hand, Knowlege Sharing Between Children and Experts" study tour unfolded at the esteemed North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power.
We are now getting closer to 2024 and now we reflect with gratitude on the incredible achievements and collaboration we’ve shared this year. Your unwavering commitment and partnership have been instrumental in advancing our mission and making a meaningful impact.
