FAO Launches the iRTP-WS Workplan for 2024-2025: Aiming for Integrated Water Solutions and Navigating Climate Change and WEFE Nexus Dynamics!

On September 30th, 2024, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) successfully held the virtual launch of the Inter-Regional Technical Platform on Water Scarcity (iRTP-WS) workplan for 2024-2025, under the theme "Integrated Water Solutions: Navigating Climate Change and WEFE Nexus Dynamics." This event marked a critical milestone in FAO's efforts to foster cross-regional collaboration and drive innovation in water resource management, with a particular focus on addressing the complex water-related challenges posed by climate change.

Launch Event Highlights

The virtual launch of the 2024-2025 iRTP-WS workplan focused on the pressing need for adaptive and holistic approaches to secure food and water resources. The central theme, "Integrated Water Solutions: Navigating Climate Change and WEFE Nexus Dynamics," underscored the importance of the Water-Energy-Food-Environment (WEFE) Nexus in addressing water scarcity in a climate-challenged world.

The event was an opportunity for FAO regional offices and global initiatives to exchange insights and align their efforts in advancing the WEFE integration. Discussions highlighted the technical scope of the upcoming workplan, which proposes solution packages (SPs) aimed at mitigating climate risks while harnessing opportunities for sustainable development, namely: Nexus Thinking, Nexus In-Action; Nexus for Resilience and Nexus for Sustainability.

RNE's plans for institutionalizing the iRTP-WS through the creation of a Steering Committee, set to be inaugurated in December 2024, were also presented during the event. This significant step aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of iRTP-WS operations and governance within FAO and to establish a leadership model that reflects FAO's commitment to cross-regional collaboration. By fostering innovative and collaborative approaches, the platform is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving food and water security in water-scarce regions, while promoting sustainable agricultural practices and climate adaptation strategies.

The Way Forward

As FAO moves forward with the implementation of the iRTP-WS workplan for 2024-2025, the focus will remain on exploring integrated water solutions through the lens of the WEFE Nexus, ensuring that all regions involved can benefit from shared knowledge, resources, and technologies. With its cross-regional approach and emphasis on practical solutions and on narrowing the gap between theory and practice, the iRTP-WS is set to become a cornerstone for solution-oriented practices in an increasingly unpredictable climate future.

To Watch the recording of the launch event, click here