The UN, yesterday (December 6th) launched a new initiative to support communities across Africa in adapting to the impacts of climate change which, if left unaddressed, could have major consequences for peoples' lives and livelihoods.

The UN Environment Program (UNEP) has set up an information portal, the Africa Adaptation Knowledge Network, to serve as a hub for knowledge, research, successful initiatives and collaborative partnerships on climate change adaptation. The idea is to build on efforts taking place around Africa to mobilize existing knowledge and provide robust solutions.

Disasters like the severe droughts in the Sahel in 2012 and the Horn of Africa in 2011, have focused attention on the serious impact of climate change on water, land, soil and other resources, and the need to build resilience to such pressures. The UNEP says the region lacks the capacity and resources needed to face the challenges of climate change.

The Africa Adaptation Knowledge Network aims to support climate change adaptation by providing services such as aggregating knowledge in addressing relevant climatic risks and sharing information as well as providing specific support to countries in developing strategic planning processes for climate change adaptation. It also seeks to build partnerships with governments, research bodies, non-governmental organizations and others, with the aim of supporting responses to climate change response.

The Network will also conduct workshops with community organizations, farmers, and other groups, to share knowledge and practical advice.