Audio
Audio
Water scarcity: A priority issue for ministers and delegates convening in Rome
©FAO/John Isaac
20 February 2014, Rome - Ministers of agriculture and national officials will convene next week at FAO in Rome in order to tackle a number of issues. The 32nd Regional Conference for the Near East and North Africa (NERC-32) is the organization's highest governing body for the region. One of the main topics being addressed is water scarcity, which is currently one of the most urgent food security issues facing countries of the Near East and North Africa. Fresh water availability in the region is expected to drop by 50 percent by the year 2050, according to FAO. The NERC agenda will include a three-day meeting for Senior Officers from 24 to 26 February, followed by a Ministerial Meeting on 27 and 28 February. This FAO led conference was established in order to support member countries in identifying strategies, policies and practices that promote sustainable solutions.

Mr Pasquale Steduto is the FAO representative in Egypt. In the following interview he explains the main issues concerning water scarcity in the region, the challenges in dealing with these issues and how the Regional Water scarcity Initiative going to address these challenges.
3min. 33sec.
Topic(s): Agriculture & crops, Food Security, Hunger & food insecurity, Water & Irrigation
Produced by: Sandra Ferrari
 
Reference: 10360