International Hydrological Programme

Water and Development Information for Arid Lands – A Global Network (G-WADI)

UNESCO has supported the establishment of a global network on water resources management in arid and semi-arid zones by bringing together an international group of experts to develop the concept, objectives, and an outline of the network.

G-WADI’s primary aim is to build an effective global community through the integration of selected existing material from networks, centres, organizations, and individuals who would become members of G-WADI. The network will promote international and regional cooperation in the arid and semi-arid areas. The activities initiated within the network will expand in a dynamic way to meet emerging needs along the lines of these objectives. Although G-WADI is open to new initiatives, specific objectives are as follows:

  • improved understanding of the special characteristics of hydrological systems and water management needs in arid areas in the South African Development Community (SADC) region
  • increased capacity-building of individuals and institutions, matching supply with need

  • the broad dissemination of understanding of water in arid zones to the user community and the public, especially as a basis for improved management

  • exchange of experience, as through case studies
  • sharing of data to support regional research and the strengthening of data networks to underpin sound management
  • awareness raising of the potential of advanced technologies for data provision, data assimilation, and system analysis
  • promotion of integrated basin management and the development and use of appropriate decision support tools.


PUBLICATIONS
Groundwater resources of
the world and their use
[PDF format – 10 MB]
This monograph represents a major undertaking by hydrologists and hydrogeologists around the world. It represents a multicultural approach to groundwater resources and their use and aims to contribute to a better understanding of the crucial role played by groundwater resources in support of both the ecosystems and mankind.

Map on Groundwater Resources of the World
1 : 50 000 000


[PDF format – 1,2 MB]
This map visualizes hydrogeological information collected within the WHYMAP project at a global scale.