Managing Drought and Water Stress in Northern Africa

Abstract

Northern Africa is a region surrounding the northern portion of the African continent. Northern Africa consists of five countries Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, and Libya. Northern Africa has semi-arid and arid desert climates and low rainfall. Over the past four decades, many areas in Northern Africa have faced drought which has become more widespread, prolonged and frequent due to climate variability and which may expedite a shortage of water and to a decrease in the land areas suitable for agriculture. In fact, limited water reserves, growing population and droughts are the main factors reflected in the increased consumption of freshwater. It is critical to understand a balance between water demand and supply by managing drought and water stress in the region.