West Africa is vulnerable to high water risk, facing the dangers of hunger, disease, energy shortages, and poverty due to several factors caused by water scarcity, pollution, and flooding.
As we mark World Water Day, it’s important to recognize the profound interaction between water and climate change. In West Africa, communities are contending with the devastating impacts of water shortage, flooding, and erratic weather patterns aggravated by climate change.
At WASCAL, we understand the critical role that water plays in shaping our environment and sustaining livelihoods. Our commitment to building climate change resilience in West Africa is fundamentally linked to addressing water-related challenges.
Through capacity-building initiatives, we equip individuals and communities with the knowledge and tools to adapt to the impacts of climate change on water resources. From training programmes for water management professionals to community workshops on sustainable water practices, we are empowering stakeholders to navigate the complex intersection of water and climate change.
But our efforts extend beyond just adaptation. We recognize that mitigating climate change is essential for safeguarding water resources for future generations. By promoting renewable energy, advocating for sustainable land management practices, and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration, we are working towards a more resilient and water-secure future.
Through our Doctoral scholarship programme in Change and Water Resources, run by the University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin in the framework of WASCAL to increase capacity building for qualified water resource scientists. The programme is combating climate change through its training activities and research output that are geared towards contributing to filling the gaps between climate and water research findings and operational applications; strengthening e-science infrastructures for water education and training and promoting awareness about the value of climate and water information.
On this World Water Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to connecting the power of knowledge and collaboration to address the challenges of water and climate change. Together, we can build a more sustainable and water-resilient world for all.