AFD-IRD - International Research Network: Updating Hydrological Standard in West Africa (ACTNAO)

Water management is a fundamental prerequisite for sustainable development in Africa. Reducing food and energy insecurity in West Africa particularly requires the construction of hydraulic infrastructure and facilities that adhere to appropriate hydrological standards for their design. However, since the 1970s, West Africa has experienced new climatic, hydrological, environmental, and societal conditions, the effects of which are not accounted for in the calculation of these standards (e.g., 10-year or 100-year floods). This has resulted in under- or over-dimensioning of structures, additional costs, and material and human damage during extreme events.

Objectives:
Structure the scientific community around the theme of Hydrological Standards in West Africa;
Pool regional and international scientific knowledge on the impact of global change on hydrological standards;
Develop actions to address urgent needs in West Africa: databases, environmental observatories, capacity building for academic and non-academic stakeholders, and scientific publications;
Coordinate research or training projects in response to international calls for proposals.

The IRN ACTNAO will build upon an existing structure, the FRIEND West and Central Africa network of UNESCO’s International Hydrological Programme (IHP) (FRIEND AOC), and will strengthen exchanges between 16 research laboratories and development-oriented institutions through a regional approach to hydrological issues. Several of its members are also involved in the AFD-IRD partnership on the water cycle in West Africa, particularly in the areas of extreme events (droughts and floods) and the design and management of hydraulic infrastructure.

ACTNAO will develop actions around three pillars: observation, research, and training. The countries involved encompass the climatic, environmental, and social diversity found in West Africa. Interdisciplinary actions and exchanges will foster the conditions for renewing ACTNAO with a focus on the impacts of extreme events in West Africa and, in the longer term, in Central Africa.

In this context, the project aims to:
Improve the living conditions of populations and their environment;
Guide decision-making to reduce the material and human consequences of floods;
Contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 13, 6, 2.4, and 1.5) and national development programs.