Drought Information System for Southern South America
Discover SISSA, a groundbreaking initiative led by the Regional Climate Center Network for Southern South America (CRC-SAS) that addresses the profound impacts of drought on the region. SISSA aims to reduce economic, social, and environmental vulnerabilities in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Key highlights applying the WMO Capacity Development Framework:
Principle 1: Holistic Approach - SISSA adopts a holistic approach, recognizing the fundamental importance of drought knowledge for society. With a focus on reducing impacts through well-informed communities, the initiative fosters dialogue and networks between researchers, professionals, government actors, and civil society. Public awareness programs are designed based on sectoral impacts and social needs, promoting a culture of resilience.
Principle 2: Sustainability - SISSA ensures institutional sustainability through NMHSs and pursues financial sustainability through outreach, sustained dialogue with stakeholders, and active participation in the regional and international climate agenda. The Coordination Unit actively prepares funding proposals for national, regional, and international donors.
Principle 3: Prioritization - The initiative stemmed from a strategic prioritization of drought as a transversal problem identified through workshops and dialogues. SISSA actively involves representatives from productive sectors and vulnerable groups from the beginning, ensuring relevance and applicability of the information produced.
Principle 4: Efficiency and Innovation - SISSA advocates for a proactive approach to drought, emphasizing planning and preparation. The initiative engages government institutions, academics, and NGOs to collaboratively develop valuable products disseminated through web portals. SISSA's Communication Strategic Plan focuses on innovative communication to sensitize stakeholders and build a culture of proactive risk management.
Principle 5: Cooperation and Inclusion - SISSA emphasizes cooperation and partnerships at various levels, involving government, communities, the private sector, and other stakeholders. The initiative actively involves representatives from multiple sectors and communities sensitive to drought, contributing to the development of preparedness protocols, early warnings, and national drought policies.
Principle 6: Result-Based Approach - SISSA's ultimate goal is to contribute to reducing vulnerability and increasing resilience to drought. The initiative focuses on providing usable information to diverse beneficiaries, including public institutions, private firms, civil associations, and individuals. The initiative aims to influence institutions evaluating investments or credits, encouraging consideration of drought risks in planning and "climate-smart" development.
Lessons Learned and Recommendations:
SISSA's success is attributed to lessons learned, such as the crucial role of interdisciplinary collaboration, the significance of sustained dialogue for co-design, and the value of exchanging experiences and capacities. Recommendations for wider application include promoting regional approaches, sharing knowledge, emphasizing transparency, and supporting national drought policies.
Explore the full SISSA case study for an in-depth look into this innovative initiative. Access the presentation slides to delve into the key principles, actions taken, and future recommendations that are shaping the landscape of drought management in Southern South America.