4 November 2010: The latest issue of UNCCD News, produced by the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), includes articles from the Executive Secretary and Ashok Khosla, among other features.

In his editorial, UNCCD Executive Secretary Luc Gnacadja recommends reading “Keeping the Promise,” the outcome of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) mid-term review in September, noting that the resolution highlights the fight against desertification. He outlines five key policy approaches propposed by the UNCCD and the UN Development Programme (UNDP), including climate adaptation to help smallholder farmers manage risk and reduce climate-driven shocks.

A special report on Africa’s “Green Wall” indicates that the coast-to-coast land conservation initiative lacks adequate funding, although regional progress and national pilot projects in sub-Saharan States have started to secure seed money. An interview with Ashok Khosla presents his insights into inadequate economic indicators, mediocrity in global governance and the short-termism of businessmen. Another article reviews low-tech improvements that are facilitating access to camel’s milk. [UNCCD News]