SKN Takes Centre Stage At Global Drought Talks
Dr. Eric Browne has warned that the prolonged dry periods are impacting the livelihoods of people within the Caribbean.
He was speaking while representing the Federation at the 17th session of the Conference Of the Parties (cop17) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification In Mongolia.
Held under the theme “Restoring Land. Restoring Hope,” the two-week event, from 17-28 August, highlights the value of global cooperation in addressing land degradation, a challenge that affects all of our livelihoods.
A key highlight on day 4 was a side event led by the partnership initiative for sustainable land management, in collaboration with Global SIDS and the Blue Green Islands.
Titled “Building Drought Resilience In Small Island Developing States,” it shared practical solutions that can directly benefit our community’s resilience to drought.
Browne, who presented at this event, explained that the conditions are placing pressure on schools, households, farmers and freshwater resources. While drought conditions are reducing available water, some countries have been developing rationing measures that affect daily life at home and in schools.
The UNCCD focal point also highlighted the increased risk of saltwater intrusion into freshwater lenses, a serious concern for small island states that rely heavily on limited groundwater and rainfall-fed systems.
For a small island nation like St. Kitts and Nevis, these discussions are not just theoretical; they are vital to our survival.
