The First National Report on the Implementation of the Convention to Combat Desertification

The Kingdom of Swaziland is seriously affected by land degradation and drought. A number of policies, strategies and programmes were adopted and implemented by government and her partners after realizing the problem, but most of them were not able to address the problems adequately. These earlier strategies and programmes included; the establishment of a Central Rural Development Board to oversee and coordinate the implementation of conservation measures in rural areas, the implementation of the fattening and sisa ranch programmes to reduce overgrazing in rural areas, the rural development area programme which aimed at improving the standard of living in rural areas through the provision of improved infrastructure and promoting commercial farming. Most of these programmes were not successful due to their inability to address the root causes of the problems. These programmes also lacked the involvement of the local communities, which were being affected. Others could not be sustained because they were expensive to the government, especially the rural development area programme. It is because of the continuation of the problem of land degradation and drought and failure of earlier interventions and efforts that government decided to sign and ratify the UNCCD in 1996 and 1997 respectively.

1. Policies and Strategies

Policies and strategies have continuously been formulated for the realization of economic development and sustainable utilization of resources. These policies and strategies have taken the land resource as a base for development and thus its sustainable utilization and conservation is at the forefront. There are those strategies which are very broad and they include; the National Development Strategy which is a 25 year vision on economic and social development, the Swaziland Environment Action Plan which is an overall national strategy for environmental management and is supported by the Environment Management Bill together with the National Environment Policy, the Economic and Social Reform Agenda which is a programme responsible for closer supervision of those national programmes that are a priority to government.

The initiatives and strategies, which are sectoral but address desertification and/or drought mitigation issues include those that are already adopted and are operational and also those which are at the planning or formulation stage. Those that have been adopted by government are; Sustainable Livelihood Programme, Poverty Alleviation Programme, National Early Warning Unit, Water Conservation Programme, Climate Change Project and the Livestock Development Policy. Those which are at the formulation stage include; the National Disaster Management Policy, Population Policy, National Land Policy, the EIA Regulations and procedures and the Bio-Diversity Action Plan and Strategy.

Non Governmental Organizations have long been involved in the support of community projects on land management and community development. They have worked with government departments in the implementation of the above programmes or on parallel programmes that compliment government efforts on sustainable land management and conservation. Their role has always been recognized and welcomed by government and they have been taken as partners in development.

2. Institutional Coordination

For institutional coordination and management, it is the Swaziland Environment Authority which has the overall responsibility of coordinating environment related policies, programmes and activities. The authority has established a National Steering Committee to oversee and coordinate the implementation of the UNCCD and other related activities. This is a multi-disciplinary body comprised of representatives from both government departments and civil society organizations including the private sector. Representation in the Steering Committee depends on the relevance of the institution or organization to combating land degradation and/or drought mitigation. Each organization was requested to nominate its representative to the committee. The Steering Committee work based on Terms of References which were approved by the SEA. Each year the committee prepares a plan of action and meet on monthly bases to direct the implementing institution on what is to be done and how. It also monitor progress and oversee the overall implementation of the plan of work. The Steering Committee is served by a Secretariat which is also the Focal Unit on the convention and is housed in the Ministry of Agriculture and Co-operatives. The Land Use Planning Section where the Focal Unit is located is responsible for coordinating implementation and making sure that decisions or recommendations of the committee are implemented by the responsible organization.

Activities of the committee are also supported by other bodies which have been created to facilitate the implementation of the convention. These include, the NGO Focal Point on UNCCD, an NGO special task force on the implementation of the convention by the NGO community, the Coordinator of the SEAP and Regional Environment Committees which are responsible for coordinating all environmental activities at regional level.

The work and programme of the NSCD is supervised, monitored and evaluated by the SEA. The SEAP Coordinator assists the SEA with the coordination and evaluation of programmes of the different committees under the SEA including that of the NSCD. In addition, the different committees are mandated to submit quarterly reports to the SEA for evaluation purposes. There is also a coordinating committee made of all chairpersons of the different SEAP committees where they meet and make sure that their different activities are coordinated and that there is synergy in the work of the different committees.

3. Activities undertaken by the Steering Committee

Since its formation the NSCD has been able to undertake a number of activities and they include:

The documentation of Indigenous knowledge Systems being practiced in the country has been started and is a continuing process.
A review of past experiences and activities, policies and strategies relevant to the combating of land degradation. This was done in preparation of the NAP process.
Preparation of an information kit on UNCCD relevant to the country and was used during the awareness campaigns.
Awareness raising and education on the UNCCD and the NAP process.

4. The NAP process

The NAP process started with awareness raising through national workshops, regional workshops, seminars, and meetings. The media was also used in the process, mostly the national radio station which has a wider coverage and is cheaper. Awareness has also concentrated at the local level where meetings and workshops were organized. The celebration of the WDCD has always concentrated on awareness raising and capacity building of local communities. In addition to the broad approaches, special awareness raising programmes were also carried out targeting special groupings like, the donor community, academic institutions, the private sector and women and the youth. There is also a programme which is being implemented whose objective is to enhance participation of local communities in the NAP process including on decision making. This is done through catalytic support to their initiated programmes and through projects and training workshops. This programme is supported by both government and NGO officers at the field level.

A time came when a majority of participating organizations had benefited from the awareness raising programmes. It was then decided that the NAP consultation process should be started. Communities were trained on the process through a series of workshops. They were requested to contribute ideas towards the NAP. This was followed by regional workshops and finally a First National Forum on the UNCCD which was held on 10 – 12 September 1997. The forum prioritised the programme areas that should be articulated on the NAP.

The NAP is composed of fourteen programme areas of which nine are on-going programmes. The four new programme areas are:-

addressing Chieftaincy disputes
awareness raising and capacity building
promoting active participation by local communities
research and technology development

The different programmes especially the new ones will be implemented through the preparation of detailed project documents in each programme area and soliciting funds from government, the private sector and external partners for their implementation. A number of proposals have already been prepared and funds are being sourced for their implementation.

The National Action Programme document has been articulated by the steering committee with the help of national and international consultants. It is currently with Cabinet for its approval and adoption as a national policy document. It is hoped that this process will be through before the first half of 1999.

4. Financing of the NAP Process

For the sustainable financing of the NAP and access to funds by local level actors, a National Environment Fund is being established. A draft document is already with the Attorney General Chambers where a bill is being prepared for submission to Parliament. The government has already committed a sum of US$ 1 million for the initial functioning of the fund once passed by parliament. A donor conference was held on the fund establishment.

All efforts of fund mobilization in the country are the responsibility of the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development. This ministry is the one which knows all the potential donors of the country and their areas of interest. A comprehensive mechanism for fund mobilization will be put in place after the official adoption of the NAP by government.

Contributions to the NAP process by external partners can be divided into two. There are those partners who have contributed directly to the NAP process while others have contributed by funding the implementation of certain elements of the NAP without necessarily referring to the NAP or UNCCD.

Partners who have contributed directly to the NAP process are, the UNCCD Secretariat, the government of Denmark, UNDP/UNSO and the Australian International Development Corporation.

Partners who have funded projects indirectly include, the European Union, Japanese International Corporation Agency, the Republic of China, DANCED, IFAD, ADB, DFID.

Other special financial contributions included the financing by the UNCCD Secretariat Focal Point to attend meetings of the INCD, COP and Regional consultative meetings. SADC-ELMS has funded national participants to sub-regional workshops and meetings.

Beside financial contributions, external partners have contributed to the NAP process through technical backstopping. A number of consultants were made available to the steering committee during the process. In addition, missions to the country by international organizations were undertaken and they highly contributed to the process.

5. Financial Requirements

Though the awareness and education processes are continuous, it is time that some activities are implemented on the ground. A sum of US$ 200 000 is urgently required to continue with the programme of support to local community projects. A large number of requests have been submitted to the Steering Committee following support of projects with funds which remained from a Memorandum of Understanding in support of the NAP process.

There is also an urgent need to capitalize the National Environment Fund which is hopefully going to be in place before the end of 1999. The estimates have been that a sum of US$ 4 million would be the basic requirement to capitalize the fund. This money will be invested and interest used in the implementation of NAP programmes.

Other resources will be for the implementation of project proposals on capacity building and awareness raising, research and technology development and support of projects on alternative livelihood for communities affected by drought.

6. Benchmarks and Indicators

Mechanisms for observation and monitoring the environment or the impact of environmental programmes in the country have been developed but awaiting their adoption. These include the state of environment reporting and the use of information from the Central Statistics Office where measures are made on the changes over time.

For the monitoring of progress and effectiveness of the NAP programme, benchmarks and indicators adopted by SADC member states were used.

1. STRATEGIES AND PRIORITIES ESTABLISHED WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLANS AND POLICIES

Land degradation and desertification seriously affect the Kingdom of Swaziland, like many other countries. The scourge of drought is also becoming a permanent feature in some parts of the country. A number of programmes and strategies were developed and implemented but have not adequately addressed the problem. It is for this reason that the government decided to join the international community by signing and ratifying the UNCCD in 1996 and 1997 respectively. A number of strategies and policy frameworks that include the combating of land degradation have continuously been formulated, some even before independence Some of the plans and strategies were implemented and abandoned while others are still being implemented. Other programmes are at the formulation stage. The policies and strategies include both those that are broad based with desertification coming in as part of the plan while others are sectoral initiatives which have a bearing on combating desertification and/or mitigating the effects of drought.

1.1 Previous Strategies/Plans Developed to Address Desertification

1.1.1 Rural Development Area Programme

This programme was initiated in 1972 and lasted until 1981 when funding ceased. The goals and objectives of the programme were the improvement of income and the general standard of the living of rural communities. The project was intended to change the subsistence farming practice to a commercial oriented farming approach and to narrow the gap between conditions in urban and rural areas. The programme components include:

Strengthening of the extension service.
Promoting commercial livestock farming.
Land development and conservation through proper settlements.
Provision of social infrastructure, roads, market outlets, depots for storage etc.
Technical assistance and training.

1.1.2 Fattening and Sisa Ranches Programme

Government fattening and Sisa ranches were established following a concern on the overgrazing caused by overstocking of the Swazi Nation Land areas. The grazing pressure in these areas was causing range deterioration and hence soil erosion. The government ranches were therefore established in a bid to reduce the problem in these areas. Beside relieving grazing pressure in Swazi Nation areas, the ranches were established in order to enable the Swazi farmer to realize good economic returns from cattle that were better managed. In the fattening ranches the animals are fattened for a certain period and then sold on behalf of the farmer. Under overgrazed conditions animals are underfed and undernourished and hence are of no economic value.

The Sisa ranches were established for the same purpose but Sisa ranches enables farmers to multiply their cattle numbers. Sisa ranches only admits female breeding stock. When these animals are admitted into a Sisa ranch, they are subjected to improved management practices such as breeding. The male calves are removed into fattening ranches after weaning, leaving the female calves behind which add to the foundation stock.

1.1.3 Grazing Management Demonstration Areas (GMDAs)

Like the Sisa ranches, the grazing demonstration programme is to educate the Swazi cattle farmer to adopt a business attitude towards cattle farming. Instead of female cattle being sent to government ranches, the community set aside an area that will be used as the breeding ranch. The management is by the community themselves, those who are members, with close supervision by government extension officers. Like in the government Sisa ranches, male animals are weaned and sent to fattening ranches and sold.

The Fattening, Sisa and Grazing demonstration programmes are still on going though the GMDAs are not popular with cattle farmers. This is because they do not address the underlying reasons why farmers keep cattle e.g. for milk, meat, draught etc.

1.1.4 Establishment of the Central Rural Development Board (CRDB)

The CRDB was established in the 1950s by a Kings order in council. The functions of the board were:

To commission and monitor resettlement programmes on Swazi Nation Land.
To establish and monitor soil conservation programmes.
To oversee the operations of the soil conservation unit which was established.
To promote the participation of chiefs in soil conservation and rural development programmes.

The CRDB is still in place but is currently under review.

A soil conservation unit was then established to implement the recommendations of the Board. This unit was equipped with heavy machinery to undertake the construction of terraces and other conservation structures.

1.2 Recent and Current Plans and Strategies

1.2.1 National Development Strategy (NDS)

The process of the NDS was initiated by the Swaziland government in 1993 as a tool for effecting broad-based participation in the development process. This process was meant to alleviate the socio-economic difficulties which were emerging, including increasing unemployment, high rate of population increase and the escalating crime and disintegration of the social fabric among the Swazi society. The deteriorating socio-economic status, therefore, called for an appropriate and effective strategy which would both mobilize popular support for the country’s economic development process and ensure effective use of resources.

The specific objectives of the National Development Strategy are to articulate, through a consultative process, a long term vision of the country and to provide a guide for the formulation of development plans and efficient allocation of public resources.

The National Development Strategy has the following environmental objectives, to:

Strengthen the management of rangelands and forests, and to properly define conservation strategies and environmental policies.
Monitor and police the optimal use of the environment, national land base and water resources in improving the quality of the human environment.
Promote sustainable use of natural resources.
Generate income and meet national goals and international raged obligations by conserving bio-diversity, controlling air and water pollution, reversing the effects of desertification, mitigating the effects of disasters and maintaining the ecological balance of the country.

The Swaziland Environment Authority requires to be strengthened together with associated institutions in order to better satisfy their mandate. Capacity building in these institutions is extremely crucial if increased awareness and support for proper environmental protection are to become a reality in the country.

A number of NGOs are beginning to take active part in the promotion of measures that ensure healthy and viable environmental and watershed management. This should be encouraged as NGOs consistently prove to be effective in working at grassroot level, an area where proper rural resources management practices must be uncalculated, if the stream of benefits from use of such resources is to be sustainable.

The National Development Strategy has already been adopted as a policy document and all sectors are expected to use it as a base for sectoral planning.

1.2.2 Swaziland Environment Action Plan

The development of the Swaziland Environment Action Plan through a consultative process was initiated in 1994 and the plan was finally adopted in 1997. The action plan is providing the framework for modifying values and attitudes, knowledge, technologies, laws and institutions which is necessary in improving the relationship among people and with the environment which support them. It provides an overall policy framework for dealing with environmental issues in the country. It is one of the policies which are considered as top priority policies as elaborated in the NDS above.

The objectives of the SEAP are:

To provide an overview of the Swaziland environment.
To identify and prioritise Swaziland’s environmental issues and problems.
To suggest solutions to priority problems in the form of practical activities and programmes and needed institutional and legal reforms.
To establish a clear indication of government’s priority areas with respect to the environment so as to guide and give proper orientation to donor intervention
To establish a framework which provides coherent direction for future planning and monitoring.
To provide a framework for continuous development and environment policy dialogue within the country and with donor partners.

The implementation of the SEAP is under five different categories which are:

Capacity Building
Environment Education Public Awareness and Participation
Biodiversity Strategy and Action Programme
Waste Management, Pollution and Environmental Health
Resource Management for Increased Productivity

For each of the categories a coordinating committee has been established for its implementation. The National Steering Committee on UNCCD is responsible for the Resource Management for Increased Productivity which includes desertification issues.

1.2.3 National Environment Policy (NEP)

The National Environment Policy, which is being piloted, builds on the analysis and recommendations contained in the SEAP and represent the next step in promoting sound environmental management across all areas of decision making. The policy focuses on the general principles and approaches, which should be adopted by any part of government, traditional structure, and organization and individual in undertaking any activity, which may affect the environment.

The policy will play a key role in integrating a range of policies into a comprehensive national policy framework designed to achieve equity-led growth and sustainable development in Swaziland. The policy also embraces the regional and global environmental responsibilities that Swaziland has undertaken as a party to various multilateral environment agreements.

Land related objectives of the policy are:

To reduce soil erosion and reverse the desertification process.
To reduce environmental damage caused by mining and to ensure that disused sites are adequately rehabilitated.
To ensure that environmental considerations are fully integrated into the process of authorizing mining, mine plans and operation, closure and rehabilitation of mines.

Strategies to be used are:

The responsibility for controlling land degradation on private and communal grazing and arable areas will be placed in the hands of the private land users and the community.
Where appropriate, funds will be made available to communities from the environment fund to assist them to undertake their responsibilities.
Land use planning in non-urban areas will be based on agro-ecological zoning approach, which takes into account differences in habitat and vegetation.
The government will take steps to involve all stake-holders, particularly local communities in decisions on land use and environment management.

1.2.4 Swaziland Environment Management Bill

The Swaziland Environment Management Bill is a legislation which is being drafted to legalize some of the issues addressed by the SEAP.

The objectives of the bill are:

To establish a framework for environment protection and the integrated management of natural resources on sustainable basis.
To transform the Swaziland Environment Authority into a body cooperate.
To establish the National Environment Fund.

1.2.5 Economic and Social Reform Agenda (ESRA)

The Government of Swaziland has felt that unless substantial remedial action is taken now, Swaziland will face serious economic and social difficulties even before the start of the next millennium. Those difficulties would subsequently continue to worsen.

The remedial measures, decided on by government, are set out in the Social and Economic Reform Agenda (ESRA). ESRA does not try to cover the full spectrum of government activities, though it does of necessity, embrace a considerable number of them. ESRA is a set of time-bound targets which government has to meet over the coming three year period. It has been concluded that if the targets are substantially met, Swaziland will start again to achieve good economic growth and improved social services. The preparation and implementation of the NAP and NEF are part of the ESRA programme being closely supervised and monitored by the Prime Minister’s office.

1.2.6 National Disaster Management Policy Framework

Disasters have always affected Swaziland sporadically. Since the early 1980s disasters have apparently occurred more frequently, indicating perhaps a trend for the future. In Swaziland, there is an apparent increase in disaster events associated with natural hazards such as drought, cyclones and strong storms. However a closer analysis reveals the potential for other hazards to cause disasters in future.

The objectives of the policy are:

To save lives, enhance livelihood and reduce damage to property and infrastructure.
To foster a culture of disaster prevention through sustainable development focussing on the reduction of poverty and vulnerability in communities, and to build the capacity and resilience at national, regional and local levels to withstand the impacts of future disasters.
To promote self reliance at national and community levels and to facilitate the participation and involvement of local communities in devising and implementing strategies for effective vulnerability reduction.
To provide a framework for sustainable, integrated, holistic and multi-sectoral disaster management.
To ensure effective, efficient and timely assistance to people affected by disasters, and that disaster response and relief efforts support long term development and vulnerability reduction strategies.
To develop an effective information and early warning system and to promote public awareness and education through training and other capacity building programmes.
To ensure the protection of the country’s natural resources and the environment.
To deliver disaster management programmes in a gender sensitive way, taking account of the fact that women and children often carry the major burden in times of disasters.
To facilitate regional and international co-operation in disaster management.

1.2.7 Sustainable Livelihood Programme

This is a three year support programme by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to the Kingdom of Swaziland which started in 1998. This is a programme framework for the promotion of sustainable livelihoods by addressing strategic issues covering economic and human resources management, natural resources management, food security, industrial development, informal sector development and infrastructure development. The programme support aims at building the capacity for sustainable livelihood through the promotion of participatory methods, creation of an appropriate policy environment and technology assessment. Direct assistance is being given in the areas of small and micro enterprise development, natural resource management and disaster management.

1.2.8 Poverty Alleviation Programme

Government has identified poverty alleviation as one of its main priorities. While this has been addressed indirectly and in somewhat a fragmented fashion in the past, it has become necessary to formulate direct strategies which are to be prioritized in a coherent framework. Government has enlisted the support of the World Bank to assist in the strengthening of existing and development of new implementation structures at the local and central government levels. Government has allocated a sum of US$ 2.5 million over the past three years for community development activities. A further US$ 3.3 million has been allocated to cater for the implementation of employment creation activities in the rural areas of the four regions of the country.

1.2.9 National Early Warning Unit (NEWU)

The National Early Warning Unit was established in 1989. Its role is to collect, analyse data and supply information on the food supply and demand situation in the country in order to enable timely remedial action to be taken against food shortages and/or food surpluses. The unit advises government on the food security situation at national and sub-regional levels. The National Early Warning Unit also conducts rapid crop assessments surveys which provide production estimates of maize and area planted to maize using methodologies that include agro-meteorological and statistical yield forecasting models and procedures. In carrying out its activities the unit is supported by the SADC Regional Early Warning Unit through technical backstopping and at times with financial and technical assistance.

1.2.10 Water Conservation and Development Strategies

The high pressure on the land brought about by rapid population growth rate has led to diminishing arable land parcels per homestead on Swazi Nation Land. This factor together with the high incidence of drought has convinced government that reliance on rainfed farming will not transform small scale agriculture. Consequently, government is doing its best to secure resources to develop water resources for small to medium scale irrigation.

This programme involves the construction of small to medium sized dams for promoting irrigation farming. This is to bring areas with rainwater shortages into production and for promoting cash crop farming on communal land. This programme is being implemented with the support of the European Union, loans from IFAD and other different sources. This programme is given top priority in the national development plans and strategies.

1.2.11 Population Policy Development

Swaziland is one of the countries in the world with the highest population growth rates which currently stands at 2.8%. This phenomenon has a negative impact on the economic development of the country and has necessitated the development of a population policy. A population council was launched in 1998 which immediately started working on the formulation of a population policy and the process is now at an advanced stage. The council has produced a national agenda which includes sensitization workshops aimed at awareness creation and formulation of a population policy implementation action plan among other things. Sector committees were formed and mandated to write position papers reflecting the views of the organizations they represent, on population issues. It is envisaged that a population policy will be in place before the end of 1999. A population unit which will monitor the implementation of the policy will be established within the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development.

1.2.12 Land Policy Formulation

The formulation of a land policy is at an advanced stage. A draft document has been produced and is currently being considered by Cabinet. The policy is to guide the allocation of land to the many different uses in such a way that the resource is used on a sustainable basis.

1.2.13 Forestry Policy Development

The development objective which the project shall contribute in the long term is: Sustainable management in Swaziland for the betterment of life for the Swazi people. This includes the role of forestry in environmental protection and rehabilitation of degraded land. The natural forests are one of the elements in the protection of bio-diversity in Swaziland. The development of sustainable forest management will highly benefit the protection of this bio-diversity. Careful land-use planning will prevent development of forestry that could lead to loss of natural habitats.

One of its objectives is:

To develop an integrated forest policy, forest action planning and a legislative basis for sustainable forest management in Swaziland in accordance with international obligations through a participatory process.

1.2.15 Climate Change Project

The overall aim of the project is to undertake enabling activities to help Swaziland prepare her first National Communication to the Conference of the Parties of the UNFCC. To realize this aim, five project components are specified in which activities must be executed.

These components are:

An inventory of emissions and removal of greenhouse gases in the country.
An assessment of potential impacts of climate change in Swaziland.
An analysis of potential measures to adapt to climate change and to abate the increase of greenhouse gas emissions.
An assessment of vulnerability of Swaziland to climate change
The preparation of a national action plan to address climate and its adverse effects; and
The preparation of the first National Communication of Swaziland to the COP.

Alongside the overall aim of the project are several developmental objectives, which seek to assist the country address specific concerns in the area of climate change and its relation to the convention. These objectives are to:

Enhance general awareness and knowledge of climate change issues in Swaziland;
Build national capacity to take climate change related issues into account in planning and strategy formulation;
Strengthen the dialogue, information exchange and cooperation among stakeholders.

1.2.16 Energy Policy Formulation

This is still at the preparatory stage. Its main environmental concerns include; the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources and from other sources that do not create significant environment harm.

The main objectives of the policy are:

to reduce unnecessary or wasteful consumption of energy;
to promote where appropriate, the use of sustainable sources of energy such as solar power.

Strategies adopted include:

priority shall be given to the development of local energy;
electrification of rural areas shall be encouraged in order to reduce the dependency of local communities on wood, coal, and dung as energy sources;
government will investigate the prospects of developing appropriate infrastructure for delivering energy from sustainable sources.

1.2.17 Livestock Development Policy

This policy is mainly for promoting the commercialisation of livestock farming by local communities. It addresses ways and means through which government will support and encourage farmers to improve their stock qualities for better financial gains. It also promotes livestock production together with conservation of range resources. This policy was adopted by government in 1997 and is currently being implemented.

1.2.18 Bio-diversity Strategy and Action Plan (BSAP)

This is prepared under the auspices of the convention on bio-diversity. An implementing committee has been established and has developed an Action Plan. Major objectives of the Action plan are:

1.2.19 Environment Projects Supported by DFID

1.2.20 Activities by Non Governmental Organisations

Non Governmental Organizations have long been active in the field of land degradation and community development. Most of their work is carried out through donor funding and it is on awareness raising, education, technical support and material support. A number of NGOs have taken interest in the implementation of the UNCCD. Some of the programmes which they are involved in include:

a) Enhancing NGO capacity to implement the CCD in the SADC region

This is a project funded by USAID through IUCN-NETCAB programme on the above topic and has been implemented in four countries in the SADC region including Swaziland. The project was coordinated by ZERO, an NGO based in Zimbabwe. The project which was carried out in 1998 involved case studies of five NGOs existing projects. The case study involved the establishment of the relevancy of the NGOs projects to CCD programmes and how best they and future programmes could be improved such that they incorporate CCD related interventions. Each of the five countries were allocated US$ 13 500.

b) Poverty Alleviation Programme sponsored by DFID through the British Council

Most of the projects under this programme have the CCD intervention strategies; water supply; intensive gardening and land rehabilitation. The activities on land rehabilitation include: fencing of the degraded land, planting of fruit trees, planting of indigenous trees, stabilization of gullies through gabbion cages and educational exercises on degraded land rehabilitation.

2. INSTITUTIONAL MEASURES TAKEN TO IMPLEMENT THE CONVENTION

Swaziland through the act establishing the Swaziland Environment Authority has put all the coordination of environment issues and activities under this institution. The SEA was established as an autonomous body by the environment authority act of 1992. The main functions of the authority is to coordinate government efforts to incorporate environmental factors into Swaziland’s development process. The main responsibilities are to:

Promote the development of policies, legislation and enforcement mechanism needed for sound environmental management, including the establishment of standards and guidelines related to pollution of the air, water and land.

Coordinate the activities of all bodies concerned with environmental matters and serve as a liaison for national and international organizations on environment matters.

Monitor trends in the state on the environment, instituting measures for environmental protection and improvement, and administering a system for environment impact assessment and auditing.

Conduct and promote research on environmental matters and promote environmental training and education to increase public awareness and participation.

The SEA has been empowered to set up its own subsidiary bodies and delegate certain responsibilities to them. As such, the mother body in the implementation of the UNCCD is the SEA. The SEA has established a National Steering Committee and has delegated to it the responsibility to oversee and coordinate the implementation of the convention.

2.1 National Steering Committee on Desertification (NSCD)

This is a multi-disciplinary committee which is responsible for coordinating and guiding the implementation of the provisions of the convention and coordinate efforts by stakeholders. It is composed of representatives from the following organizations; the Private sector, Non Government Organizations, the University, Energy Departments, Meteorology Department, Disaster Task Force, Information Unit of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry Department, National Environment Education Programme, Land Use Planning Section, Economic and Policy Administration Section, Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, Swaziland Environment Authority, and UNDP. Government department form 68% of the committee while the 32% is from the Private Sector, NGOs and Academic institutions. The ratio of women in the committee is 27%.

The designation of representatives in the committee is through appointment by their institutions. Participating institutions were chosen based on their relevancy and being important partners in the effort to combat land degradation.

The work of the committee is based on its terms of references which were drawn during the consultative process and were approved by the SEA. The Terms of Reference are:

Analyse and understand the convention on desertification.
Carry out an awareness campaign on the convention.
Carry out an inventory of projects being implemented that contribute to the objectives of the convention.
Establish the state of the environment and identify the most affected areas.
Establish strategies and priorities within the framework of sustainable development plans and or policies to combat desertification and for mitigating the effects of drought.
Prepare project proposals to source funds to carry out the implementation of the national action programme.
Facilitate an enabling environment with regards to having an appropriate and relevant legislation to facilitate the implementation of the convention.
Act as an interface between the convention on desertification and other relevant conventions.
Serve as a mechanism for coordination of programmes and policies in agriculture and natural resources management.
To collaborate with SEA in ensuring that all new developments especially those dealing with natural resources and agriculture adhere to SEA regulations and further report those violating EIA regulations.
Advocate community based natural resource management and the use of environmentally friendly technologies.
Develop a mechanism and establish standards to carry out the monitoring of the implementation of the NAP in order to provide specific recommendations on how to move forward based on lessons learned.

Mechanism for Supervision, Control and Evaluation

The SEA is also responsible for supervising and evaluating work done by its subsidiary bodies. The SEAP Coordinator assists the SEA with the coordination and supervision of the different committees under the SEAP. He works directly with the committee and is responsible for guiding direction and also reports back to the SEA on the performance of the committee and problems encountered. The National Focal Point is also responsible for submitting progress reports to the SEA. The Chairman of the Steering Committee is also a member of the supervisory committees of the SEAP which is composed of all the chairpersons of the different implementation committees and Chairpersons of Regional Environment Committees. This arrangement makes it possible for the committees to know what each one is doing and where are the activities being implemented. This provides synergy and complimentarity with other programmes.

2.2 Supporting Organs of the National Steering Committee

2.2.1 National Focal Point and Implementing Unit

The implementation of decisions taken by the National Steering Committee lies mainly with the Focal Unit which is housed within the Land Use Planning Section of the Ministry of Agriculture and Co-operatives. The section is mandated to coordinate the implementation of the NAP. The staff directly involved is the National Focal Person who is a Soil Scientist by qualification (MSc), a United Nations Volunteer (UNV) who is a Social Scientist (BA) and two part time assistants. The Focal Unit benefit from resources allocated to the Land Use Planning Section and such resources include: office space, equipment and facilities, transport, communication facilities(fax, e-mail, telephone) GIS facilities as well as human resources. The two people directly involved are not enough to manage the programme. There is need to create a unit focused on this programme with at least six officers.

2.2.2 NGO Focal Point

Non Governmental Organisations are on of the key stakeholders in the implementation of the convention. Although they are represented in the steering committee, they felt a need to designate their own focal point on CCD matters .The Coordinating Assembly of Non Governmental Organisations(CANGO) facilitated a workshop where one of the NGOs, Yonge Nawe was designated to be the focal point and also to represent NGOs in the National Steering Committee.

2.2.3 NGOs Task Force on Desertification

In an effort to strengthen their participation in the implementation of the NAP, NGOs decided to set up a task force to mobilize their participation. They felt that having an NGO focal point was not enough. The task force has drawn its own terms of references and is responsible for capacity building of the NGO sector to effectively participate in the convention activities.

2.2.4 Regional Environment Committees

Swaziland has four administrative regions and it was felt that there is need to ensure participation at local level. This was done through the establishment of Regional Environment Coordinating Committees. The committees are responsible for awareness raising, organizing regional activities and getting communities involved in environmental activities.

2.2.5 Constituency Development Committees

The country is divided into 55 constituencies and each constituency has a development committee. These committees have been used during the awareness campaigns and consultations.

2.3 Communication and networking by members of the NSCD

Communication by members of the groups which they represent is normally through staff meetings where they report on the activities of the committee. Other ways is through the circulation of meeting proceedings, workshops, seminars and site visits to projects supported by the committee. Face to face type of communication is important because stakeholders are able to react to information , ask questions, criticize, and make suggestions which at the end contributes to the work of the committee.

2.4 Operational modalities of the Committee

Based on its terms of reference, the steering committee prepares, every year a plan of action to be followed during the year. For the past three years the committee has benefited from financial support by UNDP/UNSO as it does not have a budget of its own. The committee meets on a monthly basis to oversee the implementation of the plan, not unless there are some urgent issues to be addressed.

Information systems capacities of the Committee

For the dissemination of information and sensitisation, some information, education and communication material have been developed. These systems include: newsletters, posters, video and booklets on the desertification situation in the country and possible remedies and community participation. Non governmental organizations have also developed information kits which they use when educating communities. These have been utilized during the process.

The committee has not been able to establish an electronic database up now but this is one of the things planned for the future. Members benefit from existing related databases kept by different institutions and organisations. These include databases on land tenure, land use patterns, land suitability and soil erosion mapping.

The general mechanism applied for the exchange of information locally include meetings, workshops, progress reports and the media. Cabinet is constantly informed through Cabinet minutes. For external partners it has been mainly through report presentation in conferences, workshops and meetings. Progress reports have also been sent to cooperating partners who have shown interest in what is happening.

2.5 Some of the activities undertaken by the Committee

2.5.1 Review of mechanisms available for co-ordination and harmonization of actions

Activities on combating desertification are undertaken by many different institutions and organizations. It is felt that there is a need to harmonize the different activities being carried out by implementing agencies. This has been done through the engagement of consultants to gather information on the different activities and how the mechanisms currently used in harmonizing such activities can be improved. At the end they made recommendations on the harmonization which were then discussed during workshops for role players. In addition, during national and regional fora, harmonization of efforts has been one of the major subjects discussed. Consultants were engaged to review the broad spectrum of activities to combat desertification and those that were specific to NGOs. This information was then used during the NAP preparation.

2.5.2 Review of existing land related legislation

A study on existing legislation has been undertaken and amendments have been recommended on some of the laws and the enacting of new ones

A legislative measure to ensure greater involvement and responsibility of local community is currently under review. This legislation seeks to strengthen the legal requirement of communities to be responsible for addressing land degradation issues in their areas.

2.5.3 Capacity and institution building

The need for capacity building and institutional development has been realized and has been included as one of the priorities in the NAP. A proposal has already been prepared on the capacity building and negotiations are ongoing with donors for the funding of the project.

2.6 National Strategies and Policies in relation to the NAP

The three major national policy documents, NDS, SEAP, and ESRA all include the NAP as one of the national strategies for economic development. At local level the terms of references of the Regional Environment Committees are on land degradation as it is the major environmental problem affecting the local population. A number of policies like land, forest, livestock, energy, population etc all are in one way or the other addressing the problem of desertification and they clearly mention the importance of combating desertification.

Government is supporting the NAP process as it is seen as a bases for economic development. The support provided during the preparation of the NAP document gives optimism for government support during the implementation of the programme. Commitment has already bee indicated by committing US$ 1 million to the NEF.

In addition the principles of the UNCCD have been adopted by government and most programmes are now based on its principles. Such principles include: the concept of consulting stakeholders before implementing projects, the bottom-up approach to issues, involvement of all stakeholders at all stages.

3. PARTICIPATORY PROCESS IN SUPPORT OF THE PREPARATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ACTION PROGRAMME

3.1 Mechanisms for Information Dissemination

The government, through the SEAP process, has put in place a mechanism through which information on environmental issues can be disseminated. An Environment Education Public Awareness and Participation Committee (EEPAP) has been formed under the SEAP and is responsible for information dissemination. The committee implements its strategy through workshops, seminars etc. The media is also used, though television is rarely used because it is very expensive.

During awareness and education programmes the type of information packages chosen depend on the subject in question, the target audience, as well as the reaction expected. The media used is based on coverage and affordability. The campaigns have been conducted throughout the target groups of stakeholders. This includes the youth, private sector, donor community, women etc. With such a coverage, at least most categories have benefited. The information provided has included information translated from UNCCD documents and some which have been made simple for the local population.

The procedures to identify and implement measures to raise awareness have been based on the assessment of the level of stakeholders; their understanding, level of education and the expected reaction from the target group. Stakeholders have been grouped into different categories and different procedures and methods are used for each category.

This has been done through grassroots workshops and meetings. Another strategy used has been the financing of community projects on combating land degradation to empower communities. Celebrations of the World Day to Combat Desertification have always focused at the local level with emphasis on community participation during planning and organization of the celebrations. Practical work has always been the focus during the celebrations. These practical activities have empowered the communities involved to make decisions relevant to combating land degradation.

Most community based awareness campaigns and consultations were dominated by women participants who in most meetings they comprised 60% of the audience. The government is also taking women participation in decision making very seriously. A Gender policy is at an advanced stage of its preparation and is currently being discussed in Parliament. This policy is aimed at empowering women to participate effectively in decision making. During the awareness campaigns there were some activities which were targeting special groups and these included workshops for the youth, women and for regional Environmental Committees. Women participation was also strengthened through support of their projects. The private sector has been invited to participate during the celebrations of WDCD. They were invited them to contribute funds for some of the activities.

The awareness campaigns on UNCCD were facilitated by government agencies, consultants, NGOs, representatives of international and multi-lateral organisations during their backstopping missions. All those involved were in one way or the other well knowledgeable about their mission.

3.2 Stages of the NAP process

3.2.1 National Awareness Days

Activities under the convention started immediately after the establishment of the national Steering Committee in 1996. Immediately after its formation, a two day national awareness workshop supported by the UNCCD Secretariat was organized. This workshop provided information to all stakeholders including Cabinet Ministers on the existence of the convention , what it is about and how it is different from previous initiatives and the expectations from stakeholders. This activity was an introduction of the convention to stakeholders.

3.2.2 Workshop for NGOs on UNCCD

A meeting was organised by the Coordination Assembly of Non Governmental Organizations in the country. The meeting was to set a strategy for NGO participation in the implementation of the convention as a follow-up to the national workshop. In this meeting, Yonge Nawe was designated the NGO Focal Point on UNCCD. The responsibilities of the Focal Point being to coordinate NGO activities on UNCCD in the country, encourage others to participate and network with regional and international partners.

3.2.3 Regional Awareness Workshops

After the national awareness days, regional workshops were organized at regional level. All four regions of the country were covered. These workshops were undertaken in collaboration with the Swaziland Environment Action Plan process.

3.2.4 Community based Meetings

After the awareness raising at regional level it became necessary to spread awareness further to schools and communities. The NGO Focal Point, Yonge Nawe was tasked to undertake this assignment on behalf of the steering committee. Several meetings were held at community level on the convention. Schools were reached through workshops for schools Environmental club advisors which were then expected to pass on the information to their pupil.

The awareness exercise has not stopped but is being taken as a continuous process. A number of activities including workshops, seminars, for different groups continue to be organized. There were workshops for extension officers, chiefs and Constituency headmen.

3.2.5 The NAP Process

A stage came when it was felt that the awareness campaign has been raised to a level where the majority of stakeholders are now familiar with the convention and can participate meaningfully in the elaboration of the NAP. The stages which were adopted for the NAP process were as follows:

3.2.5.1 Regional training workshops on the NAP

Workshops were held in all the regions to train Constituency headmen on the NAP process and how they should solicit contributions from their community members. The headsmen were then given time to meet with their communities and discuss the issues. This process was then followed by regional for a where the headsmen reported back on their consultations. These fora were also attended by members of the NGO community, regional government officials, regional private companies. The issues were deliberated on and at the end, each forum had to choose those to represent the region at the national forum.

3.2.5.2 National Forum

The national forum was held on 10 – 12 September 1997. It was officially opened by the Prime Minister and was attended by among others Cabinet Ministers, Donor Community and parliamentarians. A number of stakeholders, most importantly representatives of community based organizations and farmers groups. The forum deliberated and prioritized programme areas that should be elaborated in the NAP. A total of fourteen programme areas were identified and some among ongoing programmes and were listed according to their priority of urgency.

3.3 Mechanism for Sustainability of the Process

A mechanism that will ensure continuity from the awareness process is as follows: the established SEAP committee on Environment Education, Awareness and Popular Participation, Regional Environment committees, training of NGOs, local and regional government extension personnel. All these institutions have been empowered to carry forward the awareness process.

Mechanism to ensure involvement of the different actors have been ongoing workshops, meetings. Some of the actors are delegated to be resource persons during seminars, workshops, others participated in a round table and were involved in report preparation. Institutions with expertise in the field of action are made to be at the forefront in the organization of such activities.

National actors are responsible for coordinating all activities and liasing with external partners. Local actors are mainly responsible for the implementation of activities on the ground. In doing so they may seek advice from the national level actors when ever required but are empowered to act independently, raise funds for local activities. They are required to report from time to time to national level actors. Chairpersons of Regional Environment Committees is a member of the SEAP Coordination committee together with Chairpersons of National level committees.

4. MEASURES TAKEN TO ENSURE THE INVOLVEMENT OF INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS AND INTERESTED ENTITIES

International partners are very crucial to the successful implementation of the national action programme on UNCCD since this requires both financial and technical resources and support. As such, it is important to involve international partners in all the stages of the NAP process. Measures taken to facilitate the participation of international partners include invitations to all national for a on UNCCD to facilitate information sharing and solicit the opinions of the partners. In addition, direct consultations were held with some representatives of international partners including multilateral and international organizations on the convention. A special donor forum on the establishment of the NEF was also held. Consultations between government and the partners are ongoing and will be intensified once the NAP and NEF become operational.

The UNDP country office is represented in the National Steering Committee and provides a link between the committee and the donor community. One of the responsibilities of this office as a member of the steering committee is to make sure the donor community and international partners are time and again briefed on the progress made in the implementation of the NAP process and problems encountered thereof.

Communication between government and international partners follows established channels. The Ministry of Economic Planning and Development regulates and coordinates all donor activities in Swaziland. The ministry has established links with the countries donors and they know which donor to approach for each activity.

Although most international partners have participated effectively in national for a and other activities on the UNCCD in the country, the committee and focal point have experienced certain problems. The problems are generally related to the misconceptions on desertification and knowledge of the UNCCD by some partners. In some cases international partners are not conversant with their mandate in the convention. Others who are already supporting certain UNCCD related activities in the country do not feel compelled to follow the NAP process and this could result in either duplication of efforts or restricted implementation of the NAP.

5. MEASURES TAKEN OR PLANNED WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF THE NATIONAL ACTION PROGRAMME TO CONSERVE NATURAL RESOURCES

Diagnosis of past experiences have been done through the engagements of consultants made available through UNDP/UNSO. In addition, during the consultation of stakeholders on the NAP, past experiences were discussed. Even during the national forum and regional fora this issue was given priority.

Consultations on past experiences were done through literature review, field visits to project sites, meetings and workshops with different stakeholders. The knowledge gained from the analysis of past experiences have been utilized in the preparation of the NAP and in the formulation of recommendations for the implementation of the NAP.

A review of ongoing programmes and projects was also undertaken by consultants and by stakeholders during the NAP consultative process. Based on their relevancy some of the ongoing projects have been included in the NAP. The NAP has a total of fourteen programme areas and nine of them are ongoing programmes but some may need to be adapted or strengthen.

There are four new programme areas in the NAP and they are:

Addressing Chieftaincy disputes.
Awareness raising and capacity building.
Promoting active participation by local communities.
Research and technology development.

5.1 Chieftancy Disputes

Disputes within and between Chiefdoms in the country are noted to hamper development and the implementation of projects and programmes in affected areas. The forum suggested that Chiefdom boundaries must be clearly demarcated and documented. The need to document the roles and responsibilities of Chiefs was also emphasized including documentation and dissemination of information on the criteria, laws and procedures pertaining to the choice of successor to the wider public.

5.2 Awareness and Capacity Building

Noted at the forum is that Swaziland has a paucity of soil and water conservation experts. The few conservation experts are based at the headquarters of the ministry of agriculture and co-operatives. There are no field officers that can promote soil conservation in rural areas. The forum felt that trained soil and water conservation specialists should be posted to all four regions of the country. Suitable course modules on soil and water conservation also need to be developed for extension officers and community training at community levels. Environmental education also need to be integrated in the formal education curricula.

5.3 Community Participation at Grass Root Level

Communities need to be sensitised on the consequences of land degradation and encouraged to participate actively in land management programmes at grass root level. This will be achieved through empowerment of the communities, by educating them, assigning officers to the regions who are closer to the communities.

5.4 Research and Technology Development

Although it is known that the Middleveld and the Lowveld are highly eroded due to overgrazing and poor land management, there is need for intensive research on land degradation issues in the country. The soil erosion potential need to be established before prioritization of soil conservation strategies. Research on the most effective and appropriate technology to combat desertification is a must for the success of the programme. Project proposals will be prepared to source funds for the implementation of the projects. Some of the programme areas require policy formulation or review of existing policies, legislation etc. This exercise will be the responsibility of the relevant department and SEA will facilitate the process.

5.5 Proposed Training Programme

Training programmes at both the technical and scientific levels as well as community training have been proposed in the NAP. These programmes are aimed at supporting the scientific and technical activities that are suggested in the NAP.The strengthening of the capacities of local level population has been given top priority in the NAP. A project proposal has already been prepared for the implementation of this programme and its execution will depend on the availability of funds.

Measures taken to improve the economic environment of local communities include the support of income generating projects at community level, poverty alleviating programme implemented by government and other partners. A proposal is being prepared to source funds that will enforce all the other uncoordinated efforts into an integrated approach to poverty alleviation at local level.

5.6 Synergy with sub-regional programmes

During the NAP development, references were made to the Sub-Regional Action Programme (SRAP). The priority programmes identified in the SRAP have been in-coperated into the NAP. This is basically important because the SRAP is to coordinate efforts at National level. In addition to that the scientific and technical institutions are participating in existing relevant networks mostly at the sub-regional level. This is making it easier to appreciate the importance of the SRAP as it complements the NAP.

6. FINANCIAL AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE FOR THE NAP PROCESS

To ensure access by local level actors to funding, the establishment of the National Environment Fund has been piloted. The establishment of the fund is now at an advanced stage. A document has been prepared and is now at the stage of being submitted to Parliament for approval. Government has already committed a US$ 1 million (US$1million) for the initial functioning of the fund. A donor conference was held to solicit their ideas on how the fund should operate. For sustainability, the NEF is considered to be a stable source of funding for the NAP.

Non Governmental Organizations through support from various donors are implementing small grant programmes at local level to support community projects. The Steering Committee is also working with NGOs and community based organizations supporting community projects through funds that have been made available to it.

The Ministry of Economic Planning and Development is responsible for the coordination of donor funding to government departments. It is also responsible for sourcing funds for projects by government departments. In carrying out their assignment, they know all the potential donors and their areas of interest. An umbrella document was prepared for the NAP process with technical support from UNDP/UNSO. This will soon be revised after the adoption of the NAP by government and will provide a comprehensive guide on the funds available and required for the implementation of the NAP.

Contributions by partners in support of the NAP process can be divided into two. There are those donors who have contributed directly to the NAP process and there are those who are funding certain components of the NAP without referring to the convention or NAP.

Partners who have contributed directly to the NAP process have done through UNDP/UNSO and these are:

Denmark contributed US$ 250 000 for the initiation of the NAP consultation process leading to the prioritization of programme areas.
Denmark also contributed US$ 30 000 for the establishment of the National Environment Fund.
Australia contributed US$ 10 000 to initiate catalytic support to community projects.

Those partners who have funded projects indirectly include:

The Japanese International Corporation Agency (JICA) has contributed US$ 50 000 for a study on the state of land degradation in the country and formulation of possible projects that could be considered for funding.
The Republic of China has provided US$ 100 000 for the implementation of a degraded land rehabilitation programme.
DANCED is funding the formulation of a forest policy.
IFAD and ADB have jointly provided a loan for the execution of a small-holder irrigation and livestock development programmes.
EU has provided E 10 million to NGOs to implement various community projects on drought mitigation.
DFID has provided E 500 000 to NGOs to implement poverty alleviation projects at community level.
EU is supporting the water development programme.

Another form of financial support is from the UNCCD Secretariat which has financed the participation of at least one participant to INCD, COP and Regional Consultative meetings. SADC-ELMS has been supporting national delegates to regional workshops and sub-regional consultative meetings on the convention. Besides financial support, external partners have contributed to the NAP process through technical backstopping. Several consultants have been made available to the Steering Committee to assist in the development of technical papers in support of the process. Officials from the UNCCD Secretariat, UNDP/UNSO, SADC-ELMS have visited the country to provide advice and guidance on the process. Another form of technical support has been the provision of the possibility of having a UNV to support the National Focal Point in the coordination of the NAP.

Funds and technical support required

Although it has been difficult to fully quantify the amount of resourcesrequired to implement the NAP process, some estimates have been made based on the activities from the annual plan of the National Steering Committee.

A sum of US$ 200 000 is urgently required to continue the process of catalytic support to community projects. A large number of projects have been submitted to the Steering Committee for its support but the funds are no longer there as the funds from the MOU with UNSO which were used have been used up.

There is an urgent need to capitalize the National Environment Fund which will be in place before the end of the first half of 1999. The estimates from the document have identified a sum of US$ 4 million to be the basic requirement to capitalize the fund to an operational level as an endowment is proposed.

For proper coordination of the programme there is need for financial support to establish a unit focusing on CCD activities. This unit will be manned by six officers with some at the regional level.

7. A REVIEW OF THE BENCHMARKS AND INDICATORS UTILIZED TO MEASURE PROGRESS AND AN ASSESSMENT THEREOF

Mechanisms of observation and monitoring of the environment in the country include, the state of environment reporting which has been developed but not yet formally adopted. Another method has been the use of annual changes in the information provided by the Central Statistics Office which is made available periodically.

For the specific monitoring of progress in the NAP process, the benchmarks and indicators adopted by SADC member states were used. Only those relevant to the preparation process were used as NAP implementation has not started. Details are contained in the table below.

Benchmarks and Indicators

No	Benchmarks	Indicators	Remarks
1.	Institutions in place. a. National coordinating body b. Focal Point c. Implementing institution	· Legal status · Resources · Intersectoral and multidisciplinary character · Composition and mode of operation · TORs of the institution · Senior experts representing various stakeholder interests · Continuity · Established time frame	· Established by SEA · Has access to department resources. · Committee is intersectoral and multidisciplinary. · Composed of representatives from various institutions. The Focal Unit coordinates implementation of activities. · TORs are in place. · Senior experts are representing the different organisations. · Same members with very few alterations. Still same Focal Point. · Has work plan with time frame.
2.	Effective participation of actors involved in defining national priorities	· Methods of participation of various actors · Representativeness of various actors in national priorities identification (local for a, national forum) · Nature and scope of information, education and communication action. · Extent of uptake of: -local concerns at the national level -results of national consultations at the local level · Inventory of key stakeholders	· All identified stakeholders were invited to regional workshops and National For a. · Stakeholders have always been asked to send representatives and they did. · Adapted according to the level of understanding of the target audience. · NAP is based on information gathered from stakeholders. - Done through Second National Forum and information dissemination. - Inventory of key stakeholders was undertaken.
3.	Support from international partners	· Degree of participation of international partners · Establishment of an informal consultation and harmonisation process for actions between partner countries · Contribution to facilitation funds	· Fair, though could improve. · Established through MEPD. · Fund still being established
4.	Institutional framework for coherent and functional desertification control	· Measures identified and adopted to adjust or strengthen the institutional frameworks · Measures adopted to strengthen existing institutions at the local and national levels	· Studies are currently ongoing on the re-organisation of institutions for environment management. · It is an ongoing programme mainly through training as the institutions do exist.
5.	NAPs as part of the national economic and social development planning	· Making the NAP coherent with other environmental strategic frameworks and vice-versa · Interlinking of NAP with national, regional and local approaches · Interlinkages of NAP with Subregional action Programme · Agreement by the government · Integration of NAPs into national development plans and taking account of existing programmes · Specific programmes emerging from policy statements	· The NAP ha been harmonised with all relevant strategies and meetings of relent responsible institutions meet more frequently. · NAP interlinked with local and national strategies. · The NAP is in harmony with the Sub-regional strategy. · NAP is currently being considered by government for possible adoption. · As is still in the approval process has not yet been integrated. · A number of programmes have immerged from political statements e.g.
6.	Harmonised legal and regulatory framework impacting the environment	· Analysis of legislation and enforcement of laws on the environment · Measures to adapt current legislation or introduce new enactments and management tools · Natural resources management policies and acts	· Has been done · In progress. · Are being developed.
7.	Adopted financial mechanisms	· Measures to facilitate the access of local actors to existing sources of funding · Working out new, adapted methods to mobilize internal and external resources · Facilitation funds established	· Support in project preparation and advising on available sources of funds. · New strategies being developed in preparation for the implementation phase. · Establishment in progress.
8.	Established programmes to combat desertification	· Inventory, adaptation and integration of projects underway within the NAP process · Identification of new actions · Actions to strengthen the national and local capacity to combat desertification	· On going projects included in NAP. · New actions have been identfied. · Strategies identified and being implemented.
9.	Established mechanisms, norms and standards for monitoring and evaluation	· Establishment and/or strengthening of environmental monitoring and observation capacities · Established mechanisms and criteria for monitoring the impacts of NAP formulation · Established unit to undertake the monitoring and evaluation · Established norms and standards	· In progress. · Still being worked on. · Established SEA · Still being developed.
10.	Review of NAPs and commitments by partners.	· Approval and acceptance of the NAP actors involved · Adequate resources committed · Partnership agreement adopted	· Approval to come with approval of NAP by Cabinet. · Not enough resources\as yet. · No agreement as yet.

The First National Report on the Implementation of the Convention to Combat Desertification

TABLE OF CONTENTS