3 March 2014: Organized under the theme of ‘Combating Desertification in Africa: Enhancing Agricultural Productivity and Food Security,’ the 12th Annual Africa Environment Day brought into focus the negative effects of land degradation on Africa’s food security.Events were held in the Kingdom of Lesotho, organized with the African Union Commission (AUC).

The UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) Executive Secretary, Monique Barbut, addressed the event, underscoring they Day’s relevance to the World Day to Combat Desertification, which is held on 17 June. She highlighted the value of an ecosystem-based approach in climate-proofing land and securing its productivity.

The event was preceded by a two-day media training from 1-2 March on raising awareness on desertification and sustainable land management in Africa. The Day was held alongside Wangari Maathai Day, which celebrates the life of the Green Belt Movement founder and Africa’s first female Nobel laureate. [UNEP Press Release] [UNCCD Press Release] [UN Press Release] [UNCCD Press Release on Lesotho]