In view of the reliance of the Region on irrigation for food production and as a drought mitigation measure, FAO assists member countries in developing sustainable irrigation, and promotes the need for expansion and better co-ordination of public and private investments in this sector. Due consideration is given to large and medium-scale irrigation as well as low-cost small-scale irrigation projects that fit the specific conditions of the Region. Within this objective, the use and application of cost-efficient irrigation technologies and equipment must be increased, and credit systems and the provision of loans and grants for irrigation development by external support agencies and governments should be ameliorated.

This is achieved through providing the member countries with:

• Appropriate strategies, methodologies and guidelines for irrigation development and expansion,
• Assistance in the transfer of low-cost irrigation technology and irrigation equipment manufacturing,
• Capacity building in irrigation design and use,
• Assistance in mobilizing public opinion, decision-makers and financing organisms and advocacy for the need for investment in cost- efficient irrigation development.