Empowering MENA drought management through data innovation

Drought is a worldwide threat to food and water security and is a constant presence in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Recent droughts reveal the gaps and limitations in drought management in the region and  emphasize the urgent need to support the governments and people in these countries in developing efforts to manage the impacts of these extreme events. This need is further heightened by any analysis of future climate conditions in the region.

The Middle East and North Africa-Regional Drought Management System (MENA RDMS) will harness the enormous innovations from the ongoing data revolution to bring new climate/water/food data as part of monitoring and early warning systems. These are vital components in implementing preparedness and mitigation measures. It will serve the region by:  

• Establishing a regional drought monitoring and early warning system and associated information delivery systems.
• Providing assessment of drought vulnerabilities and impacts.
• Assist officials in charge of mitigation and relief efforts in developing effective drought preparedness and response plans.