FAO Technical Committees prioritize water management: Key Discussions at COFI, COFO, and COAG Sub-Committee on Livestock.
In line with the FAO's Biennial Theme 2024-25 "Water resources management for the four betters: better production, better nutrition, better environment and better life, to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," the pivotal role of water management in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was underscored in recent FAO Technical Committee meetings. These discussions are vital for adopting a coherent and strategic approach towards recognizing water resource management as a cornerstone in agriculture, including forestry, fisheries and aquaculture management, and livestock production.
During the 36th session of the Committee on Fisheries (COFI), held from 8 to 12 July 2024, participants emphasized the importance of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) in fisheries and aquaculture. The committee acknowledged the need to consider fisheries and aquaculture in the context of IWRM approaches and supported the proposed priority actions to enhance this integration.
Subsequently, the 27th session of the Committee on Forestry (COFO), held from 22 to 26 July 2024, advocated for integrated solutions to address the forest-water-food-climate nexus. It urged FAO members to intensify efforts to unlock the vast potential of forests in providing climate and water services, by halting deforestation, restoring degraded forests and landscapes, and promoting sustainable forest management .
In the 2nd session of the COAG Sub-Committee on Livestock, conveyed in July 2024, the focus was on supporting member countries in linking livestock production with sustainable land, soil, and water management in an integrated manner, highlighting the crucial role of these natural resources in sustaining livestock production, preserving ecosystems, and supporting livelihoods.
Read the following documents
COFI. Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) for fisheries and aquaculture >>
COFO. Contribution of forestry to FAO’s work on climate change and integrated water management >>
Final reports from these sessions of COFI, COFO, and the COAG Sub-Committee on Livestock are expected to be released soon, providing further insights and recommendations.